Niël Terblanché
By participating in the commemoration of both World Clean-Up Day and Arbour Day, Namibians will have the opportunity to be part of global efforts to protect the environment and enhance sustainable living.
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has announced that Namibia will be commemorating these important global events.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda, said that the country will raise awareness about environmental health and sustainability on both World Clean-Up Day and Arbour Day.
World Clean-Up Day, celebrated internationally on 20 September, has been postponed to 12 October 2024 in Namibia.
“The ministry is calling on Namibians across all 14 regions to actively participate in clean-up activities aimed at restoring Namibia’s status as one of the cleanest nations in Africa,” Muyunda said in a statement on Wednesday.
He added that regional councils and local authorities are collaborating with a National Clean-Up Organising Committee to coordinate efforts.
Muyunda pointed out that the initiative goes beyond just a one-day event.
“We should collectively hold regular clean-up events as a reminder of the responsibilities we share in preserving and maintaining clean and healthy environments,” he said.
Namibia’s clean-up efforts will be vital for its reputation because the nation has historically been known for its cleanliness.
However, in recent years, Namibia has slipped in global rankings. Windhoek, once named the cleanest city in Africa, has seen its ranking decline.
Muyunda said that the ministry is using this event as a turning point, calling on all sectors of society, including schools, churches, and organisations, to mobilise for a clean environment.
He added that a clean environment not only promotes better public health through clean air, water, and sanitation but also helps to protect wildlife and boost economic development through tourism and investments.
“The ministry will provide limited cleanup materials, but communities are encouraged to source additional supplies,” he said.
According to Muyunda, Arbour Day commemorated on 11 October 2024, is equally significant for Namibia.
In collaboration with the Oshakati Town Council and the Oshana Regional Council offices, he announced that Oshakati will host the event, marking the 32nd celebration of the day.
“Arbour Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of trees and their preservation,” he said.
This year’s theme, “Forest and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World,” emphasises the role of innovation and technology in protecting and utilising forests.
According to Muyunda, the ministry is encouraging Namibians to plant trees, especially in urban areas, to promote greenery in cities and households.
The 2024 National Arbour Day will also highlight the importance of the Salvadora persica, or Real Mustard Tree, as the “Tree of the Year.”
Namibia, which only has 8% forest cover, faces challenges such as illegal timber harvesting, deforestation, wildfires, and drought.
Muyunda said that environment minister, Pohamba Shifeta will officiate both events, stressing their importance for Namibia’s environment and future.
He added that as a dry country, Namibia heavily relies on trees and forests for ecosystem services, such as oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption.
“When trees are cut, they no longer absorb carbon dioxide, which contributes to climate change and leads to events such as droughts and floods,” he said.
Muyunda added that these initiatives are essential in protecting Namibia’s biodiversity and fighting climate change.
