Forests take centre stage as Bulawayo marks global day

STAKEHOLDERS in environmental conservation have renewed calls for sustainable forest management and community involvement following commemorations of the International Day of Forests at Silwane Nature Reserve in Bulawayo on Friday.

Although the International Day of Forests is globally observed on March 21 each year, this year’s local commemorations were held on 27 March to allow broader participation from schools, community members and various stakeholders.

The event, which was organised by the Zimbabwe Forestry Commission in partnership with Green Hut and Silwane Nature Reserve, brought together government officials, environmentalists and students.

A symbolic highlight of the day was the planting of 21 trees within the reserve, each tree representing March 21, which is the official date of the global observance.

Participants also took part in a guided nature walk and tree identification exercise, reinforcing the importance of environmental education and hands-on conservation efforts.

Speaking at the event, District Conservator from the Zimbabwe Forest Commission, Mr Bekithemba Ngwenya, emphasised the critical role forests play in sustaining life and supporting livelihoods.

“Forests are not merely stands of trees; they are the backbone of our ecosystems,” he said.
“They support biodiversity, regulate climate, protect water sources and sustain livelihoods for millions of people.”

Mr Ngwenya highlighted that in Zimbabwe, forests are a vital resource for rural communities, providing fuelwood, timber, fruits, medicinal products and other non-timber forest goods.

He added that forests also act as carbon sinks, playing a key role in mitigating climate change, warning that despite their importance, forests continue to face serious threats, including deforestation, veld fires, land degradation, illegal harvesting and the growing impacts of climate change.

“These challenges not only threaten our environment but also the socio-economic well-being of present and future generations,” said Mr Ngwenya.

Representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Judith Ncube, Deputy Director for Environmental Planning and Management, Mrs Norah Mupaza, highlighted similar sentiments, stressing the economic value of forests.

“This year’s theme: ‘Forests and Economies,’ underscores the critical role forests play in driving economic prosperity, sustaining livelihoods and strengthening climate resilience,” she said.

Mrs Mupaza said forests contribute directly to Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by supporting industries such as timber production, furniture manufacturing, construction, herbal medicine, honey production and ecotourism.

These sectors create employment and contribute significantly to national development.

“Forests are among the most valuable natural resources on our planet. They provide clean air, regulate climate, protect water catchments, conserve soil and support biodiversity,” she said.

Mrs Mupaza commended the Forestry Commission and its partners for organising the event and for their continued efforts in promoting environmental education and youth engagement. “Every tree planted today represents hope for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future,” she said.

“The actions we take today will shape the environment that our children and grandchildren inherit.”
The Silwane Nature Reserve stands as a model of what can be achieved when conservation is prioritised, as communities and stakeholders are urged to replicate similar initiatives across the country.

With renewed commitment from stakeholders and growing community involvement, there is hope that Zimbabwe can reverse the tide of forest loss and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.