By Omar Bah
The Department of Forestry staff has formally expressed their concerns to the Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, Rohey John-Manjang, regarding the controversial appointment of Colonel Salifu Corr, a soldier, as Director of Forestry.
Announced on March 3, 2025, this appointment sparked widespread criticism among staff members who question the appropriateness of appointing a military officer to lead a civilian forestry agency. Reports state that over 9,000 individuals have signed an online petition opposing this decision.
In response to the backlash, the Minister defended the appointment in the National Assembly on March 18, stating that it was made based on merit and qualifications. However, critics, including prominent figures like Madi Jobarteh, have labeled the decision “sad and outrageous,” further igniting public debate.
In a letter addressed to the chairman of the Public Service Commission, the Minister’s Office, and the National Assembly and copied to several oversight bodies, staff members conveyed their serious concerns regarding Colonel Corr’s appointment as Director of Forestry. They noted, “This appointment has raised significant apprehension due to the appointee’s apparent lack of background and expertise in forestry and natural resource conservation, which are critical for the effective leadership of this vital department.”
The staff emphasized that the Forestry Department holds immense importance within The Gambia’s governance framework, playing a fundamental role in national development and environmental sustainability. “The effective execution of these responsibilities demands a Director of Forestry with specialized knowledge, proven experience, and a deep understanding of the complexities of forest management,” they stated. This need is further emphasized by the detailed job description for the Director of Forestry, which outlines specific requirements for technical expertise and leadership in this specialized field. They added, “Any appointment that overlooks these critical requirements raises significant concerns about the future of forestry management in The Gambia.”
The staff urged the Public Service Commission to reconsider the appointment of the Director of Forestry and to select from among qualified candidates with the necessary expertise. “Appointments of personnel lacking expertise in forest management should be discouraged. It is essential to maintain the Department’s policy on decentralized operations, ensure continued participatory approaches, and uphold merit-based, transparent recruitment processes for leadership positions without delay,” they concluded.
