Namibians have been urged to plant more trees than the number of those they cut down.

The Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, made the call at the celebration of National Arbor Day at Osona village in Okahandja. 

The day was commemorated under the theme "Forest and Health".

"Trees provide more than just shade or shelter, they also provide food.Cutting them down deforests the already dry and semi-affected countries, such as Namibia."

In honour of Arbor Day, children, teachers from various schools, and all who joined the celebration planted various species of trees at Osona Village.

Pohamba Shifeta, emphasised the importance of planting and nurturing trees.

"They breathe life into our environment by purifying the air, capturing carbon to combat climate change, and providing habitat and sustenance for countless species of wildlife. Moreover, they offer us a multitude of ecosystem services that are essential for our well-being as human beings and also as animals."

Shifeta mentioned that despite efforts to preserve the forest, the country faces formidable challenges such as deforestation and degradation.

"These issues not only impact our natural ecosystems but also jeopardise the long-term sustainability of our forests. But fear not, for we are not helpless in the face of these challenges. As custodians of this beautiful land, it is our collective responsibility to act. On this Arbor Day, let us make a solemn commitment to protect and restore our forests."

The schools in attendance won awards for the art work they created on the importance of planting trees. 

Their messages call on Namibians to paint Namibia green in unison to preserve the environment for future generations.