Illegal logging by former rebels in Liberia is undermining the fledgling government’s efforts to restore political stability, according to a new report by Global Witness.
The report says illegal logging and diamond mining by rebels could generate profits for warlords, which may ultimately threaten peace.
Global Witness says a UN-led programme has not managed to secure funding to find employment opportunities for ex-combatants.
It also says the government and UN have failed to maintain control over the country’s natural resource industries, as well as prevent illegal timber being exported.
President-elect Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has vowed to crack down on the problem.
