University of Livingstonia Promotes Environmental Sustainability through Tree Planting Exercise

By Chrispin Kapindira and Hastings Yobe

The University of Livingstonia (UNILIA) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting environmental sustainability by conducting a tree planting exercise at Lusangadzi on January 29, 2025. The event, held under the theme “Restore Forests and Land to Enhance Food Production,” aimed to bring the community together to contribute to improving the environment.

In an interview, Reverend William Tembo, General Secretary of the Livingstonia Synod, emphasized the importance of not only planting trees but also protecting them for future use.

“We plant trees year after year, but we don’t take care of them, and they end up dying. As a synod, we urge the government to come up with a winning solution and take serious measures to protect and care for these trees.”

Reverend Tembo suggested that those who engage in wanton tree cutting should be held accountable and face the law. He also advocated for the employment of more forest guards to protect the forests and for the guards to work diligently to safeguard the trees.

Village Head Kampingu Sibande expressed concern about the lack of adherence to bylaws that prohibit careless tree cutting. “The problem of tree cutting has been a huge one, as people rely on the forest for charcoal burning and other needs. To eradicate this, we have engaged in awareness campaigns with traditional authorities on the importance of preserving forests.”

Benjamin Mwausegha, a student from the University of Livingstonia who participated in the event, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative.

“I’m excited to have taken part in this year’s tree planting exercise, as it’s one of the ways we can restore the country’s vegetation and preserve the planet’s greenery.”

The University of Livingstonia conducts tree planting exercises annually as part of the country’s initiative to restore its vegetation and promote environmental sustainability.