The Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, Dr. SG Nyoni, has committed to enhancing the capacity of the Forestry Commission, recognizing the vital role that forests play in Zimbabwe’s development. At the Commission’s 3rd annual general meeting held in the capital this week, Dr. Nyoni outlined her ministry’s plans to improve the commission’s performance and leverage the nation’s forest resources for sustainable development.
Dr. Nyoni assured stakeholders of her Ministry’s dedication to achieving better results in 2022 and beyond. To address historical financial and capitalization gaps, the Ministry is currently negotiating with the Treasury to ensure the effective operation of the Forestry Commission.
“I assure you that my Ministry will diligently press on for even better results during 2022 and beyond. To achieve this, we are negotiating with the Treasury to address the historical financial resource and capitalization gaps of the Forestry Commission. I have been adequately briefed and am committed to taking corrective measures,” she said.
The Minister emphasized the significance of forests, describing them as “life” and highlighting their crucial roles.
“The government notes that forests are life as they are the pivot of REDD+ projects, mitigate the effects of climate change, facilitate the growth of wildlife-based tourism through habitat provision, support hydroelectricity supply in the country through improved water supply, and have many other infinite uses,” she added.
Dr. Nyoni’s commitment to taking corrective measures underscores the government’s recognition of the immense value of forests. By bolstering the Forestry Commission’s capacity, Zimbabwe is poised to make significant strides in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and economic growth.
This renewed focus on forestry development is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the country’s ecological and economic landscape, solidifying Zimbabwe’s position as a leader in environmental stewardship.
