In a heartwarming initiative that merges environmental conservation with women's empowerment, rural women across the diverse communities of Ozondati and Otjohorongo in the Erongo Region are leading the charge to plant trees and secure a greener future.

In Ozondati village, a group of over 50 enterprising women from the Namibia Rural Women's Assembly have embarked on a mission to combat deforestation, increase food security, and tackle climate change by planting trees.

Armed with knowledge from demonstrations on how to take care of a tree from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, these women are determined to plant indigenous trees that are crucial for the region's biodiversity.

Speaking at the event, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism's technician, Otillie Joseph, says rural women and trees are often the unsung heroes of sustainable development.

The Ministry has provided the donation of trees as a small step that can lead to a significant change.

"Rural women are the ushers of information about indigenous knowledge and the conversation of trees, and for centuries, they have engaged in traditional medicine."

One of the beneficiaries, Gerhardine Kenaihe, expressed her gratitude, saying that not only will these trees combat soil erosion and act as a source of livelihood, but they will also provide habitat for them.

"Trees give us more important things. I am not sure of the tree I am receiving today, but if I get a shadow tree, I will appreciate it, and if I get a fruit tree, I will also appreciate it."