By Chimeno Azriel
Mashonaland West Province commemorated International Day of Forests at Highbury Lounge in Kadoma on Friday with a range of activities aimed at promoting the importance of forests and sustainable land use.
The commemoration, which was attended by stakeholders from government, civil society, schools and the private sector, encompassed a number of activities including tree planting which was held at the venue, with participants planting trees to symbolise their commitment to sustainable forest management, the quiz competitions for primary and secondary schools testing students’ knowledge on forest-related issues and promoting environmental awareness and lastly the exhibitions by Sir John Kennedy Primary school, Community Capacity Building Initiative Centre for Africa ( CCABICA), and the Forestry Commission, showcased their work on sustainable forest management and environmental conservation.
In an interview with the acting Provincial Forests Extension Manager (APFEM) Namatai Maunzagona, she said forests were essential for human survival and environmental balance.
“Forests are essential for human survival and environmental balance, offering numerous benefits such as food and medicine, cooking fuel, agricultural support, rural livelihoods and water and food security where forests supply freshwater, enhance water quality, and play a vital role in global food security,” said Maunzagona.
In the speech read on his behalf by Director of Finance, Administration and Human Resources Dr Tirivangani Matare, guest of Honour Permanent Secretary in the office of Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Josphert Jaji highlighted the importance of agroforestry as the most effective way to harmonise agriculture and forestry.
He noted that the approach integrates trees into agricultural landscapes and has been hailed as a game-changer for sustainable land use and environmental conservation.
“One of the most effective ways to harmonise agriculture and forestry is through agroforestry where it offers numerous benefits, including improved soil health, increased biodiversity, and enhanced ecosystem services,” said Jaji.
Speaking to CCABICA Director Rodreck Dick, he said forests are a vital component of the country’s ecosystem, providing numerous benefits that support the livelihoods of the communities and they are a source of clean air and water, soil conservation, and habitat for biodiversity.
“As CCABICA, we are committed to working with government, civil society, and local communities to promote sustainable forest management practices and protect our forests from degradation,” said Dick.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Sir John Kennedy Primary school head of projects Bvumai Precious Gumbo said that as a school, they were committed to environmental conservation and sustainability and their exhibition was a reflection of this commitment, and they hoped that it was going to inspire others to take action to protect the forests and natural resources.
In Zimbabwe, aligning with the 2025 theme ‘Forests and Food‘ is pertinent to the country’s strategic goals, particularly those outlined in the Zimbabwe National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) for 2021-2025 where it emphasises sustainable environmental management and the promotion of food security. Integrating forest conservation with agricultural practices can enhance soil health, water availability, and biodiversity, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture and food systems.
The International Day of Forests (IDF) is observed annually on March 21st. It’s a global celebration aimed at raising awareness about the importance of all types of forests and trees.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21st as the International Day of Forests in 2012.
This was done to highlight the crucial role forests play in sustaining life on Earth.
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