By Meditation Mposi
As the country continues to grapple with effects of climate change, the forestry commission department in Masvingo province is targeting to plant 600 000 trees this year as part of the various efforts being implemented to combat climate change.
Speaking during a media workshop organized by Environment Management Agency (EMA), Forestry Commission Masvingo Acting Provincial Manager Edwin Machokoto said preparations for planting of the trees have partially started although official launch will be in October when the rainy season begins.
“The forestry commission in Masvingo is targeting to plant 600 000 trees in across the province this year during the rainy season. Preparations have partially started in Bikita, Mwenezi and Chiredzi districts where there is high rate of deforestation due to charcoal production.
“As the Forestry Commission, we are advising the public to preserve the existing trees especially our indigenous trees. When harvesting we encourage the public to use sustainable harvesting methods. I also urge the public to practice reforestation and afforestation in order to prevent deforestation in the province,” said Machokoto.
“As a commission we are going to work mostly with schools. More trees are to be planted in Mwenezi, Bikita and Chiredzi District where there is production of charcoal hence high rate of deforestation. Many rural communities use firewood for cooking, heating and some earn a living through selling firewood,” Machokoto added.
Mashandika Village Head Edmore Taruvinga from Chatikobo area in Masvingo District said as a cultural steward he was playing a part in combating deforestation in his village through encouraging villagers to plant trees.
“We are educating people on the good methods of cutting trees for example pruning to avoid deforestation in our area. Prior to cutting down of trees one is supposed to seek for permission from the village head.
“Climate change is hitting us hard. The droughts are terrible this year so during village gatherings people are taught on the dangers of cutting down trees and we are encouraging each homestead to fruit trees,” said Taruvinga.
Protecting existing forests and promoting reforestation efforts are crucial steps in mitigating drought risks and building resilience to climate change.
However, to ensure sustainable management of trees and the environment, collaboration and support from the government and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) is crucial to empower traditional leaders.
EMA has dragged a number of people to court for cutting down indigenous trees across the province which is a violation of the Forestry Commission Act.
