A new book documenting indigenous trees found in Nkurenkuru was launched.

Authored by Hans-Martin Milk, the book "The Trees of Nkurenkuru" profiles tree species found in Nkurenkuru.

The publication provides names of trees in both vernacular languages and English, their natural habitats and their uses.

"I started this book when I was a teacher at ELCIN Nkurenkuru High School in 1994. So I used to pick up my students and drive through Nkurenkuru to show them the wonderful trees here and explain about this small city in 1994. You couldn't imagine. You just ask people like Tate Veiyo what was in Nkurenkuru at that time. So later on I decided, No, I have to make a book out of it."

The book serves as an educational resource for the community and promotes awareness on conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

The Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Anselm Marungu, expressed gratitude to the author, describing the book as essential in preserving knowledge about the trees found in the area.

"In terms of economic support, the forestry sector contributes significantly to employment through timber, wood carving and non-timber forest products, which provide medicine and food that sustains rural households and generates trade. Trees provide essential fodder for our livestock during large dry seasons and droughts. Forests also provide materials for building shelters and for manufacturing our furniture."

Residents have been urged to protect the forests, reduce deforestation and introduce the habit of planting trees.