Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to take urgent and collective action to preserve the environment and combat climate change.
Speaking during a tree-planting ceremony at the 21st ZANU PF National People’s Conference in Bulawayo yesterday, the President emphasized the crucial role of trees in promoting sustainable development and ecological restoration.
Accompanied by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, the President led the event under the theme "Trees and Forests for Ecosystem Restoration and Improved Livelihoods."
The initiative, which underscores the importance of reforestation efforts, saw the planting of several trees aimed at fostering environmental awareness and inspiring future generations to adopt eco-friendly practices.
"Trees are life, and the oxygen that we breathe comes from them.When we plant trees like we have done today, we are not only promoting conservation but also setting an example for the younger generation to recognize the significance of trees in our lives," said President Mnangagwa.
The President added that the trees planted during the exercise would provide future generations with shade and beauty, serving as a lasting reminder of the need to protect the environment.
"In the coming years, there will be a big tree and shade where we have just planted today, and the younger generation will enjoy it, not knowing that years back the President and First Lady were the ones who planted these trees," he said.
First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, who also serves as the Environment Patron, reaffirmed her dedication to promoting tree planting across the country, especially during the rainy season.
"Today is my day as the Environment Patron, and the whole country has seen that I have led this tree-planting exercise.I am urging everyone to get ready and plant trees now that the rains are upon us,"said the First Lady.
She also highlighted the urgent need to address deforestation, particularly in rural areas, by intensifying efforts to restore forests where trees have been lost.
"We are now getting into the forests to plant trees because that is where deforestation is happening the most," she added.
The tree-planting initiative is part of Zimbabwe's broader environmental conservation strategy aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
