FSC tools support African forest supply chains with EUDR compliance

By Dr Paul Kazaba, Africa EUDR Policy Manager at the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is poised to reshape how forest-based commodities such as timber, paper, and furniture are traded globally. For African producers and exporters, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

Following a 12-month postponement, the EUDR will apply from 30 December 2025 for large companies, and from mid-2026 for small and micro-enterprises.

Earlier this month, I presented FSC’s tools during a well-attended webinar co-hosted by FSC, the South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI), and EcoSquare Consulting. The session provided practical insights and tools to help businesses understand and navigate the EUDR and other emerging EU trade regulations.

I explained the EUDR’s context, purpose, and scope, as well as the regulatory requirements for furniture companies wanting to access the EU markets. The regulation requires that companies placing wood and wood-fibre products on the EU market demonstrate that these are:

Deforestation free
Forest degradation-free
Legally produced
Fully traceable to their source, supported by geolocation data
Risk assessment.

To support this transition, FSC has developed a suite of EUDR-aligned tools and solutions. The “FSC Aligned for EUDR” supports compliance through its digital traceability platform’s Regulatory Module, Risk Assessment Framework and FSC Trace. These tools and solutions are designed to help businesses adapt to the requirements while promoting broader sustainability goals.

Since joining FSC as EUDR Regional Policy Manager for Africa, I have been working closely with stakeholders across the continent to support their preparedness for this major regulatory shift. These engagements reinforce FSC’s commitment to supporting Africa’s forest sector through inclusive, locally informed implementation.

FSC makes several appointments in Africa

Annah Agasha: Deputy Director Africa

Annah Agasha brings 20 years of experience in forestry, natural resource management, and local development to her new role as FSC Deputy Director for Africa. Previously the Eastern Africa Sub-Regional Coordinator for FSC, Annah will oversee the implementation and expansion of forest management certification and the FSC Ecosystem Services portfolio across the continent. Her responsibilities include supporting the effective delivery and implementation of FSC policies, standards, and procedures, strengthening strategies to tackle labour issues in Africa, and fostering key collaborations to advance FSC's mission to promote responsible management of the world's forests.

Bilha Asunda: Operations Manager

Bilha has been instrumental in establishing FSC Africa's new office and streamlining operations. In her new role, she will continue to enhance operational efficiency and support the execution of key projects.

David Gaynor: Ecosystem Services Regional Lead for Africa

David brings vast experience and expertise in conservation to this role, where he will lead the development of the FSC Ecosystem Services and Verified Impact portfolio.

He will focus on supporting businesses and forest managers to strengthen a regional pipeline of potential ecosystem services projects in certified forests for sustainable finance instruments.

Gerard Busse: Promoted to Market Development Manager for Africa & Middle East

Gerard will lead efforts to grow the Chain of Custody and FSC Trademarks programmes across these regions. With a strong track record in marketing, communications, and sub-regional coordination, Gerard is well-positioned to drive FSC's market expansion.

Israel Bionyi: Promoted to Senior Regional Communications Manager

Israel will continue to elevate FSC's brand visibility and showcase the impact of our work in promoting responsible forest management across Africa.