tawandamusarurwa
Online Reporter
THE Tobacco Research Board (TRB) is offering free gumtree seedlings to members of the public as part of efforts to combat deforestation.
Over 500 000 seedlings have already been delivered to the board’s centres across the country, including Kutsaga Research Station.
TRB public relations and communications officer Mr Tatenda Mugabe said the exercise is also part of the organisation’s Easter and Ramadan commemorations.
“When the Creator made earth, it was rich with thick forests and humans were made the custodians,” he said.
“As TRB, supported by our development partners, we have raised at least 500 000 eucalyptus tree seedlings to cover 200 hectares.
“The TRB is freely giving away gumtree seedlings to all walks of life to control the incessant loss of indigenous forests.”
Gumtrees, Mr Mugabe said, can go a long way in combating deforestation, which is largely being caused by tobacco production.
“The gumtrees have high multiplication ratio and short growth rates, which make them good substitutes for indigenous trees in all domestic and commercial needs of humanity.
“To ensure maximum utilisation of the land, we are going to tap into the science of agroforestry.”
Christians commemorate Easter this weekend, while Muslims are observing the month of Ramadan.
Online Reporter