Currently, there are a series of massive tree planting exercises going on in the country.
To us, this is a good initiative since the importance of trees to human beings cannot be underestimated.
However, we are very much concerned about the sustainability of these trees being planted across the country.
We hope that the authorities, especially at the Forestry Department, will put in measures to ensure that the trees they are planting with partners are well taken care of.
It is one thing to plant trees all over, but another thing to keep them safe from animals, and to water them during the dry season in some cases.
Our argument is that we have seen in the past that many trees planted in the country, even at village levels, were not fully maintained and, as a result, a good number of them eventually died.
The trees planted could provide us with shade, food, timber, firewood, energy, etc and, as such, should be well protected.
Generally, trees are very essential to our environment. They provide us with many things which are useful for our daily lives.
The most essential and major component provided by the trees is oxygen. The trees utilize the carbon dioxide released by us (the humans) and in turn they provide us oxygen which keeps us lively, healthy and active.
We get all the minerals and vitamins needed for our proper health and growth from the fruits and other plant products like vegetables, cereals, grains, etc.
The roots of the trees hold the soil firmly and prevent soil erosion. This leads to the increase in the ground water level and the continuity of water cycle gets balanced resulting in good rains.
Ultimately, therefore, trees prevent the drought and provide greenery to the environment. Apart from taking care of the soil and water, the trees provide shelter to many animals and birds in the forests, which ultimately help in the ecological balance of the nature.
Having more number of trees around will reduce the hazardous effects of global warming.
It would be wise, therefore, that authorities establish committees at community level to supervise and monitor the development of the planted trees. Monitoring of the planted trees from time to time would ensure their survival.
We urge more people, including voluntary organizations, to join the crusade to make the country greener by also planting trees.
Our commendation goes to the Ministries of Forestry and the Environment and Agriculture for their lead role in the national tree-planting efforts.
We also remind them of the task ahead in making sure that the trees are well protected, and do well.
