OSHAKATI: Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta said deforestation and forest degradation are on the rise with action needed to solve the problem.
Shifeta said this during the occasion of Arbor Day held at Osona village in Okahandja on Saturday, saying the unsustainable land use practices, such as slash-and-burn agriculture, illegal logging, and urban development, threaten to strip away the precious forest cover.
According to Shifeta, these activities not only result in the loss of biodiversity but also contribute to carbon emissions and soil erosion.
“Forest degradation is another concern, driven by selective logging, fuelwood collection, and invasive species. These issues not only impact our natural ecosystems but also jeopardise the long-term sustainability of our forests,” he said.
He added that trees, in essence, are silent heroes that enrich every aspect of people’s existence.
“However, despite their immense value, our forests face formidable challenges.”
Hence, Shifeta said it is the collective responsibility to act and make a solemn commitment to protect and restore the forests.
He urged Namibians to at least plant a tree, not just in their immediate surroundings, but in their communities and across the nation and care for existing trees, watering them, protecting them from pests and diseases, and pruning when needed.
Moreover, Shifeta called on Namibians to unite and “paint the county green” with tree-growing initiatives.
“Arbor Day is a reminder of our commitment to the environment, our future, and the planet. Let’s make every day Arbor Day and ensure that the beauty and benefits of trees continue to grace our lives and those of generations to come,” he appealed.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency
