The legislator Yona Kaphamthengo said this Monday at a tree planting exercise in Chakwawa village Traditional Authority Mwanza where he also quizzed as to how charcoal gets to cities passing through roadblocks.

"I know the department of forestry is challenged, like here in Salima they don't have a reliable vehicle to help them carry out patrols thereby affecting their operations and the fight against illegal charcoal production." Said Kaphamthengo.

Kaphamthengo however faults law enforcement agencies saying there is laxity and suspicious dealings in roadblocks thereby allowing illegal forest products to get through.

" On the other hand, I think there is lack of seriousness on law enforcement in roadblocks which also needs to be addressed." He added

Meanwhile, district forestry officer for Salima Adam Jason admitting of the challenges hampering their efforts has appealed for a collaborated approach to dealing with the issue of illegal charcoal production.

"We are indeed challenged but we are trying, however talking about charcoal production there is a need for collaboration among different stakeholders including community members from the source." Jason Said.

Members of Parliament across the country been tasked to champion tree planting drive this season as one way of restoring the forests.