Story by Tamuka Charakupa
ZVIMBA District in Mashonaland West Province marked National Tree Planting Day with a call for stronger environmental stewardship, as government, diplomatic representatives, traditional leaders and environmental organisations emphasised the urgent need to restore Zimbabwe’s forests in the face of climate change.
The commemorations, held on Saturday, highlighted the role of afforestation in preserving biodiversity, strengthening livelihoods and protecting cultural heritage.
Algeria’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, H.E. Mahommed Seoudi, praised the country’s commitment to climate resilience and community-driven conservation.
“As partners, we are encouraged by the Government’s commitment to sustainable land management and climate resilience, and we are equally inspired by the enthusiasm shown by local communities, schools, and civil society groups. Every tree planted is an investment in cleaner air, restored ecosystems, and stronger livelihoods. As an embassy, we remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation, and long-term sustainable development. Together, we can turn these small acts into a national culture of caring for our planet, H.E Seoudi said.
Government called upon citizens to maintain trees and adopt a culture of tree planting for ecological stability for present and future generations.
“Government is committed not only to tree planting, but also to the broader vision of sustainable forest management. We will formalise and grow bio-prospecting and bio-trade to unlock the full economic potential of non-timber forest products and biological resources. Sustainable harvesting, value addition, and market development for products such as wild fruits, medicinal plants, fibres, and craft materials will be promoted to ensure their integration into both domestic and international trade. These measures will position biodiversity as a driver of inclusive growth, ecological sustainability, and industrial development, ensuring that our forests contribute meaningfully to livelihoods while supporting national industrialisation,” Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu noted.
“I encourage you not to stop at planting this season’s trees only, but also to plant a variety of other species. Trees themselves are life. The involvement of Friends of the Environment (FOTE) in this work is a key reminder that we must all play our part. I would like to thank all the companies undertaking this important work. For over 15 years, Friends of the Environment has stood as a strong partner and a key guardian of our community.I am pleased to inform you that this year, during our walkathon from Harare to Murombedzi , the 16th edition of the FOTE walkathon, we have planted more than 42 million trees,” Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo weighed in.
Environmentalists concur on the importance of tree planting.
“Young people are the future, so we must teach them early. Our nurseries in schools are helping children understand the value of trees. We will keep growing this programme until every school has a strong tree-planting culture” FOTE’s head, Ms Patience Fusire said.
Traditional leaders echoed the cultural significance of restoring woodlands.
“As traditional leaders, we are the custodians of our land, our culture, and the heritage passed down by our ancestors. Planting trees is not just an environmental act, it is a cultural obligation that ties us to our roots and reminds us of the sacred bond between our people and the natural world. Our forefathers taught us that a community that protects its trees protects its future. Today, as we plant these trees, we are reaffirming that wisdom and committing ourselves to preserving the land for our children and their children after them,” Chief Dununu added.
Local authorities pledged to intensify grassroots mobilisation to safeguard forests.
“As local authorities we will intensify these efforts by government to ensure that tree planting culture cascade to all corners of the province,” Zvimba Rural District Council, Chairperson, Spenser Magaya noted.
The National Tree Planting Day, commemorated every first Saturday of December, is a significant event in Zimbabwe’s environmental calendar, aimed at promoting tree planting and environmental conservation, particularly in the wake of climate change.
