Staff Reporter
Masvingo Minister of State Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, has urged the Chivi community to embrace forestry entrepreneurship as a means to improve livelihoods through income generation and job creation.
Speaking last weekend during the National Tree Planting Day at Danhamombe High School, Minister Chadzamira highlighted the critical role of trees in combating climate change, enhancing food security, and fostering sustainable development.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the irreplaceable role forests play in the water cycle, climate regulation, and ecosystem balance, warning of the dire consequences of deforestation.
"Forests are essential, as they are irreplaceable in the water cycle. Their destruction leads to diminished rainfall, a problem already evident in Masvingo through recurring heatwaves and unpredictable rainfall patterns,” Chadzamira said.
The Minister further noted that Zimbabwe heavily relies on firewood as a primary energy source.
According to the Natural Energy Report, wood fuel contributes 61% of the nation’s total energy consumption, followed by liquid fuels (18%), electricity (13%), and coal (8%).
Minister Chadzamira also raised concerns about the illegal harvesting of firewood, veld fires, and their devastating effects on forest sustainability, agriculture, and tourism.
He highlighted how these challenges contribute to food insecurity and economic losses, urging the community to take proactive measures.
“Destroyed trees are often not replaced, which hampers reforestation. Fires destroy plantations and pastures, impacting livestock production and wiping out vital crops like maize, sorghum, and wheat, leaving families vulnerable to hunger,” he explained.
The Minister called for increased efforts in tree planting and conservation, urging parents to teach children the importance of environmental stewardship.
He described forestry entrepreneurship as a viable pathway to address environmental challenges while driving economic growth.
“Together, we can protect and conserve our forests to secure a brighter, more sustainable future,” Chadzamira concluded.
The event underscored the importance of community participation in tackling climate change and fostering resilience through sustainable practices.
