Omuthiya: The Directorate of Forestry under the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism donated 972 seedlings to various schools in the Omuthiya circuit of the Oshikoto Region. The donation was part of a special Arbor Day commemoration event held at Waapandula Combined School, under the theme 'Forests and Food.'

According to Namibia Press Agency, Director of Dryland Sustainable Landscapes in the ministry, Johnson Ndokosho, explained that while Namibia officially observes Arbor Day on the second Friday of October to coincide with the start of the spring planting season, the Omuthiya circuit opted to host the event in February to leverage the ongoing rainy season. This timing is intended to improve seedling survival rates, which is crucial in a country where water and vegetation are scarce.

Ndokosho emphasized the importance of trees, stating, "Trees give us oxygen. If you think trees are not important, you will find yourself not breathing properly. Trees play a major role on Earth as they absorb carbon dioxide to produce energy through photosynthesis." He also encouraged mayors to plant trees in their towns and create green parks, urging communities to plant trees to enhance their living environments.

The seedlings distributed included both fruit-bearing and shade varieties, aimed at supporting environmental and nutritional objectives. The donation included 310 mango trees, 300 guavas, 100 lemons, 100 paw-paws (papayas), 150 kigelia, six delonix (flame trees), and six other shade trees.

Omuthiya circuit education inspector, Paulus Nambahu, urged parents, learners, and communities to see tree planting as a long-term commitment. He stated, "Let us commit not only to planting trees but to planting the right trees in the right places for the right purposes. Let us grow forests and feed the nation - trees provide food, shade, cleaner air, and a healthier future for generations."

Additionally, three schools with active gardens were recognized and awarded gardening tools and additional seedlings to expand their initiatives, reinforcing the connection between trees, sustainable agriculture, and community well-being.