The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT), Indileni Daniel, has stressed the importance of preserving and planting trees, highlighting their ecological, climatic, social and economic contribution within the ecosystem.
Speaking at the Arbor Day celebration in Windhoek, the minister reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to forest conservation, guided by the SADC Forestry Strategy 2020-2030.
The regional framework focuses on strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing governance, and promoting markets and trade in forest products.
It also improves financial management, encourages private sector engagement, and ensures the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of forest systems.
The Environment Minister stressed the importance of nurturing and planting trees, highlighting their vital role in beautifying neighbourhoods, reducing heat and helping to restore landscapes ravaged by natural disasters.
Speaking on Namibia's commitment to forest preservation, Daniel emphasised that trees are central to community well-being and environmental resilience.
However, she warned against over-exploitation, deforestation, land degradation, and wildfires.
"Planting trees is a powerful first step, but our true commitment lies in nurturing it to full maturity. Yes, you can plant, but it requires you to nurture it so that it matures. That is how we build lasting change. One tree, one green space, one future at a time. We can start by planting trees in our homes and schools, like I think you have set a good example, and in our communities. Every single action, no matter how small, makes a difference."
Emphasis was also placed on the need for joint efforts not only to help conserve indigenous woodlands and dry forests but also to combat deforestation.
Another is the promotion of community-based forest management to generate lasting income and create sustainable rural livelihoods.
The Deputy Head of Development Cooperations at the German Embassy is Hauke Brankamp.
"We also have recently proudly supported the development of new guidelines for the sustainable use of biological and forest resources, for example, in Namibia's community forests and communal conservancies. These guidelines will help to ensure that not only the many non-timber forest products like nuts, berries or mushrooms, but also other materials such as medicinal plants, resins, fuel wood or fibres are sustainably used for the benefit of the local communities and provide incentives to manage forest wealth. As we have done already in the past, German,"
Namibia's Tree of the Year for 2025 is the apple leaf tree, a native species valued for its wood, animal fodder, and medicinal properties.
Each year, Namibia spotlights an indigenous tree to promote its cultivation in nurseries and communities.