Oshana Governor Elia Irimari led a tree-planting event at Ondangwa in honour of the late Founding President Sam Nujoma, whose wish was to see a greener Namibia and a healthier, cleaner environment.

Irimari's initiative follows a call by President Netumbo-Nandi-Ndaitwah, who urged all Namibians to plant trees in remembrance of the late Nujoma and in celebration of his birthday and legacy.

President Nandi Ndaitwah stated that Nujoma was a strong advocate for the protection of nature, with particular emphasis on Namibia's rich fauna and flora.

Speaking at the celebration of the Omagongo festival at Omhedi over the weekend, President Nandi-Ndaitwah added that the government, in collaboration with the Sam Nujoma Foundation, has agreed that every Namibian should plant a tree on his birthday to celebrate Nujoma's legacy.

"As we are here, it will be significant that we plant more Omiongo trees and for us to keep account of where Nujoma trees are. You are kindly requested that when you plant a tree, please register with your regional councillor or your regional governor. Be very specific about the type of tree you have planted and where you have planted it. You have to keep a record; it is very significant for us to live and to continue the legacy of Sam Nujoma of environmental protection."

Oshana Regional Council heeded that call and acquired 100 trees from the Environment and Forestry Ministry and distributed them to Oshakati, Ongwediva, and Ondangwa town councils for planting.

"Today we gather not only to plant trees but also to sow seeds for memory, hope and creating an everlasting legacy. On this day, the 12th of May, we remember and celebrate the birth of a man whose roots run deep in the history of our nation, the founding father of our nation and the first President of Namibia, Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma. It is the first birthday we observe in his absence, but his spirit and his visionary leadership remain evergreen in our hearts," said Governor Elia Irimari.

Learners attended the event and shared their perspectives on the importance of planting trees.