Local climate advocacy group, Climate Action Network Zimbabwe (CANZIM) has highlighted the crucial role that indigenous trees play in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity. In an interview to mark this year’s Indigenous Tree Day, CANZIM national coordinator Wellington Madumira said indigenous trees are important in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration.
“Zimbabwe has a rich diversity of indigenous tree species that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and preserving biodiversity. Indigenous tree celebrations promote the conservation of these trees, as they are well adapted to the local environment and provide habitat for various wildlife species.
“Trees are crucial in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. Indigenous trees, adapted to local climates, have the potential to sequester large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thereby reducing greenhouse gas concentrations,” said Madumira
He highlighted how indigenous tree celebrations promote sustainable land use practices, such as agroforestry and reforestation, which can help mitigate climate change impacts, improve soil health, and enhance agricultural productivity. “These celebrations raise awareness, foster community engagement, and inspire actions that contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in the country,” said Madumira
In Harare’s Budiriro suburb, indigenous tree day celebrations were led by the Glen-View-Budiriro District Centre for Heritage, Arts, and Culture. Marian Kunonga, co-founder of the center, highlighted their efforts in restoring the environment through the planting of indigenous trees.
“We are actually restoring and protecting our wetlands through planting indigenous trees that have been donated by various organizations. We are restoring our environment through planting indigenous trees,” said Kunonga.
This year marked the inaugural Indigenous Tree Day (ITD) designated by the African Tree Seeds Group (ATSG) a group of people and organizations that are involved in biodiversity conservation.
The day was created to raise awareness about the importance of indigenous trees to biodiversity on the continent.
