Staff Reporter
The moringa tree, celebrated for its medicinal benefits, is gaining recognition, especially in international markets. Its growing popularity was highlighted at the National Tree Planting Day event held at Mathambo Secondary School in Lupane, where the importance of tree preservation was discussed.
Director Tapera Mugoriya, who represented the Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, and Devolution Richard Moyo, delivered a strong message on the importance of conserving the environment and protecting local ecosystems. He stressed that tree planting efforts must go beyond symbolic actions and should be part of a sustained, collective commitment to forest preservation.
“We need to preserve our forests and natural ecosystems, as His Excellency always emphasizes environmental issues. We need to assess the impact of our past tree planting efforts and evaluate how far we have come. Are we doing any value addition to the trees we harvest, especially since we are a timber-producing district?” Mugoriya said.
Mugoriya also highlighted the importance of using natural resources sustainably.
"Trees like the moringa, along with other indigenous plants, are being increasingly traded in international markets due to their medicinal and health benefits. moringa, in particular, has seen a rise in demand in Western countries for its health-enhancing properties, with products made from its leaves, roots, and bark now highly sought after.
“Trees like moringa are now trading internationally. It is time we teach our young people about the value of these trees, which provide us with food and have the potential to improve our health. Where there is food, there is peace. Let us plant and preserve trees, as they are not only a source of nutrition but also offer medicinal benefits that help solve health problems,” he added.
Mugoriya further emphasized the importance of ensuring that trees planted in previous years are properly maintained.
“Let us make sure the trees we plant are cared for and preserved. We cannot afford to plant and forget. Our future depends on the sustainable management of these resources,” he said.
The event was also an opportunity to reflect on the growing concerns of drug and substance abuse, which remains a significant issue in many communities. Mugoriya called on everyone to join hands in the fight against these challenges, encouraging collective action in both tree preservation and the battle against substance abuse.
“Let us all take part in the preservation of our trees, which contribute not only to our health but also to the wellbeing of our communities,” Mugoriya noted.
The event served as an important reminder of the role trees, particularly medicinal ones like the moringa, can play in both improving public health and providing economic opportunities. It also underscored the need for continued commitment to preserving the environment and nurturing the trees that sustain the community.
