COMMUNITIES in Bulilima, Matabeleland South province, recently came together to jointly commemorate the International Day of Forests and International Meteorological Day with massive tree planting.
The event, held under the theme Forests and Economies, was aimed at restoring degraded forests, promoting biodiversity and supporting livelihoods.
“Forests are the lungs of our planet and it’s our responsibility to protect them,” said Tadeous Chifamba, permanent secretary in the Environment, Climate and Wildlife ministry.
“Through afforestation and reforestation efforts, we are committed to promoting sustainable development and mitigating the effects of climate change.”
The country had about 45% of its land covered in forests, but loses around 262 000 to 330 000 hectares annually due to deforestation driven by agriculture, settlement expansion, mining and illegal logging.
Agricultural expansion accounts for 44% of forest loss, unsustainable logging 18%, fuel wood and charcoal production 16%, mining 11% and livestock grazing 6%.
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The Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe is promoting sustainable forest management and conservation practices, aiming to plant 15 million trees annually.
In a separate development, Environment, Climate and Wildlife minister Evelyn Ndlovu announced Zimbabwe’s tree of the year for 2026 as erythrina abyssinica known locally as Mutiti, Munhimbiti, Mutete or Mutsiti in Shona and Umgqogqogqo in Ndebele.
“This tree is a symbol of our commitment to preserving Zimbabwe’s natural heritage,” she said.
“We urge all citizens to join hands in propagating and protecting erythrina abyssinica, ensuring its benefits reach future generations.”