21 Nov 2019

Mmankgodi residents have been advised against cutting of trees because it can lead to environmental degradation.

The advice was given  by Minister of Defence, Justice and Security Mr Kagiso Mmusi on the occasion of Kweneng District Tree Planting Day in Mmankgodi on November 21.

Mr Mmusi warned that if they tree cutting persisted, the environment would turn into  unproductive, rocky soil and desert-like land which could not be put to use.

“We have a duty to look after our country and guard against those hell-bent to start veld fires, overgrazing, illegal sand mining, land deforestation and degradation,” he said.

Trees played an important role as they produced oxygen and food which were vital to human existence, said Mr Mmusi.

“In brief, humans and plants have to coexist given the complimentary value they give to one another,” he said.

The minister, also Gabane-Mmankgodi MP, said trees also played an economic role in the provision of valuable wood, medicines and other products.

“Environmentally, they store carbon and protect soil from erosion, assist in filtering and regulating water and provide a habitat for wildlife,” he said.

He said Mogobane village was slowly gaining popularity and exposure due to its lush vegetation and the tall trees.

Minister Mmusi said keeping the environment safe and vibrant was essential adding that the recent drought the country experienced resulted in a significant loss of livestock to disease, lack of food and water.

He said the aim of the day was to raise awareness on the importance of trees in the environment and  people’s daily lives and to rehabilitate the Moshawa stream by planting trees.

“I would like to urge you to love and respect trees. If this is taken by all of you, then your contribution in preserving the environment would be phenomenal,” he said.

The minister applauded Mmankgodi residents for their efforts in rehabilitating Moshawa in partnership with the Department of Forestry and Range Resources (DFRR).

DFRR has partnered with Forest Conservation Botswana and Backyard Nurseries to increase the number of planted trees.

Minister Mmusi said to date, 10 746 trees had been planted in the Kweneng District.

He called upon residents to take care of the trees by watering them and protecting them from animals. Ends