Story by Courage Bushe
MINERS in the Midlands Province have been urged to take the lead in tree planting initiatives as part of efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The call was made at the Midlands Provincial Tree Planting Day which was held in Shurugwi on Saturday, with giant mining companies pledging to play a critical role in protecting forests in the wake of deforestation in some areas.
“Let me acknowledge His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, whose vision places strong emphasis on responsible natural resources use, sustainable development, environmental protection, and climate resilience. Chengxi is proud to be key in advancing these national goals through structured rehabilitation and reforestation,” Chengxi Chengetai Investments Director, Mr Simon Karimanzira noted.
The Forestry Commission reminded the community of the need to safeguard forests as a shared responsibility.
“To our miners in this province, there is a need to adopt mitigatory measures like planting trees and protecting forests in the wake of deforestation in some areas. I urge our miners to play a key role in advancing these national goals,” Forestry Commission Board Member, Commissioner Sylvia Sithole said.
Government says it is committed not only to tree planting, but also to the broader vision of sustainable forest management.
“In line with the National Forest Policy, we emphasise the need to continually revitalise, manage, conserve, and sustainably utilise forest resources. This requires adopting sustainable land-use practices, promoting reforestation and afforestation, enforcing laws against illegal logging, and investing in education and awareness to encourage community participation,” Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube said.
National Tree Planting Day in Zimbabwe is celebrated on the first Saturday of December to encourage the planting and conservation of trees.
