Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa in Kutama
ZIMBABWEANS came together in Kutama yesterday to commemorate the National Tree Planting Day, joined by 15 ambassadors from African countries who pledged to spearhead an initiative that will see 8 million trees being planted in one day next year.
The ambassadors committed to leaving an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s environment through the Diplomatic Green Initiative.
To date, the African diplomatic corps have mobilised about 5 000 seedlings of fruit and exotic trees to be planted during this rainy season.
Government officials, stakeholders in environmental management, and the Zvimba community joined in the commemorations, which ran under the theme “Trees and Forests for Ecosystem Restoration and Improved Livelihoods,” with the sausage tree being the Tree of the Year.
Dean of the African diplomatic corps, Mr James Musoni of Rwanda, who was represented by Algerian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Mahommed Seoudi, delivered the keynote address, reaffirming the diplomats’ commitment to help green Zimbabwe.
“This day aligns with what President Mnangagwa and Environment Ambassador Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa are spearheading,” said Ambassador Seoudi.
“The initiative by the African Group of Ambassadors seeks to foster a culture of environmental protection among Zimbabwean students and communities through tree planting campaigns.”
Deforestation and land degradation, he said, were issues of major concern across Africa and there was a need for concerted effort to restore affected land.
Ambassador Seoudi said tree planting was key in restoring ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and protecting cultural and natural heritage.
Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo called for a concerted effort to maintain and restore forests to curtail climate shocks and sustain socio-economic development.
Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Evelyn Ndlovu said the Ministry had rolled out various tree-planting initiatives to restore the country’s ecology.
