South Africa has made significant progress in sustainable forest management since the 1996 White Paper on Sustainable Forest Management. The government has shifted its focus to enabling communities to control their forests, promoting community involvement in forestry through the Commercial Forestry Masterplan and transferring 27 plantations throughout the country. Ongoing support is provided to communities by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, ensuring the sustainability of these plantations while empowering local communities. This transfer represents a commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and justice for future generations.
