The constituency tree planting programme has gathered momentum in Shurugwi North, with the local legislator reaffirming commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Aligning with the nationwide tree planting drive spearheaded by first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Owen Ncube, last month presided over the handover of tree seedlings to Members of Parliament across the province, officially launching the constituency tree planting programme.
In Shurugwi North constituency, the programme has since been cascaded to several educational institutions, marking a significant step toward environmental conservation and youth engagement.
Speaking during the distribution of trees to schools including Msasa Secondary School, Tongogara Secondary School, Svika Secondary School, Bethel Primary School, St Francis Nhema Primary School, Trafalgar Primary School and Mavedzenge Primary School, Shurugwi North MP Joseph Mpasi underscored the importance of embedding environmental responsibility within communities.
“This initiative speaks directly to our responsibility as leaders and citizens to safeguard our environment for future generations,” he said.
“By empowering our schools and young people to take part in tree planting, we are cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship, sustainable forestry and community ownership of development programmes.”
He added that schools were strategic centres for community transformation, noting that learners not only plant trees, but also become ambassadors of conservation within their families and villages.
The programme seeks to promote reforestation, combat land degradation and contribute to climate resilience, while reinforcing community participation in national development initiatives.
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By focusing on educational institutions, the initiative ensures that environmental awareness becomes ingrained in the next generation.
Local school authorities welcomed the development, describing it as both timely and educational, particularly in the face of climate change and deforestation challenges affecting parts of the Midlands province.
The constituency tree planting programme is expected to expand to more wards in Shurugwi North as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen environmental sustainability and community-driven development.
