Environment, Forestry, and Tourism Minister Pohamba Shifeta launched the 2024 tree planting season at the Onawa location in Oshakati.

The season was launched during the celebration of National Arbour Day.

The day was preceded by the free distribution of 780 trees at Oshakati and Ongwediva with a call on citizens to plant trees.

Shifeta says planting trees may seem small, but it is vital because trees have a significant impact on the environment.

With the launch of the tree planting season, one thousand trees will be planted in the Oshana Region to minimise deforestation.

"Deforestation is driven by the large majority of our rural people depending on wood biomass for energy needs, unsustainable use of wood resources, and slash and burn practices to expand agricultural activities."

He described forestry and trees as the lungs of the planet, as trees provide people with clean oxygen and their role in maintaining ecological balance.

Shifeta called on developers to integrate green space in urban planning during construction and other major 

"This is befitting as innovation and technology are transforming how we protect and utilise forests as the world confronts challenges such as deforestation and forest degradation."

The theme showcases the vital role of technology and innovation in forest conservation, combating deforestation, habitat degradation, and climate change.

Shifeta says nearly 2.5 million hectares of land cover in Namibia is affected by wildfires, and this has prompted the country to focus on promoting tree planting in urban development, planning around residential areas, in towns and city streets, and creating forest parks.

Oshana Governor Elia Irimari is concerned with deforestation and the effects of climate change.

"It is our collective responsibility to address these challenges and work towards a sustainable future. I am happy that a commitment has been made to plant 100 trees in the Oshana Region. Each tree we plant is a symbol of hope, a promise for a greener and healthier tomorrow."