Governments need to set up more strict laws that will look at the protection of our forests.

Speaking at the International Day of Forests celebration in Tabia Labasa this morning, Commissioner Northern Jovesa Vocea says all governments need ambitious forest policies and regulations to protect the traditional forest cover and the biodiversity it shelters.

He says the Fijian government now has some new national priorities which essentially includes the sustainable management of our forest resources to cater for both the current and future needs.

Vocea adds that investing in forestry education can change the world for the better.

He says by doing this, counties can help ensure there are scientists, policymakers, foresters and local communities working to halt deforestation and restore degraded landscapes.

The celebration today included the planting of native trees led by the Commissioner Northern and HODs of government’s ministries and departments in Vanua Levu.

The theme for this year’s IDOF is Forest and Education.