Businesses dealing in the sale and transportation of forest products have been cautioned about the rampant issuance of fake permits that might lead to severe consequences, including apprehension if caught.
In a statement on Tuesday, September 30, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) warned drivers transporting goods like timber, logs, poles and charcoal that there had been an increase in the vice, while sharing sample letters being unlawfully issued as movement permits.
As such, the service clarified that legitimate licenses can only be issued following a visit to the County Forest Conservator's office.
"Kenya Forest Service warns the public to beware of fake forest goods movement permits, which could lead to apprehension and impounding of the materials," the statement read in part.
"Anyone who requires a movement permit for forest goods such as timber logs, poles, and charcoal, among others, needs to visit the respective County Forest Conservator's office."
At the County Forest Conservator's office, one needs to present a Certificate of Origin that indicates the source of the materials, which must be verified by KFS officials before the movement permits are issued.
KFS concluded the statement by urging the public to report any case of fake movement permits to the nearest KFS offices for further investigations.
In July 2024, businesses and individuals working within the wood industry were informed of an increase in the cost of movement permits owing to new regulations.
However, KFS announced that the movement permit fee would remain at Ksh2,000, but would also attract a Value Added Tax (VAT) of Ksh320.
Acquiring a single transport permit for imported timber would soar to Ksh25,570 from the previous Ksh2,000.
Consignment fees would be charged at Ksh20,000, while VAT would be charged at 16 per cent, with the fees amounting to Ksh3,200.
Other charges included transporters paying Ksh50 as a service transaction fee, a fee of Ksh30 per bag of charcoal transported and a VAT of 16 per cent, movers of charcoal bags will also be required to part with the Ksh50 eCitizen fees for each transaction, while Non-wood forest items would attract a fee of Ksh2 plus VAT of 16 per cent as well as the eCitizen transaction fees.
All the fees would be payable through the e-Citizen platform.
