WINDHOEK: In a bid for environmental stewardship and community engagement, the Hage Geingob Stadium on Tuesday played host to the ‘Give an Hour for Earth’ tree planting event, marking Earth Hour Namibia 2024.

This year’s event was celebrated under the theme ‘Give an Hour for Earth’ and honoured Namibia’s late President, Dr Hage Geingob.

Speaking during the event, Martha Kautanevalli, Miss Earth Namibia 2023, urged participants to embrace personal responsibility in fostering a healthier planet.

‘From opting for more sustainable transportation to energy-efficient habits, the transformative power of small daily actions amount to a massive change for our environment,’ she said.

Members of the public, learners, government officials and representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) witnessed the planting of a Cyphostemma Juttae tree, a hardy species native to Namibia’s arid regions and known for its capacity to survive harsh conditions.

The Cyphostemma Juttae tree was chosen as a symbolic monument
to the late president, showing his enduring commitment to the country’s progress in the face of adversity.

Windhoek’s deputy mayor, Joseph Uapingene, lauded the presence of youth participants and called for continued dedication to environmental preservation and education.

‘It is high time that we are taught about our indigenous trees because they serve a great purpose in our day-to-day life.’

Johnson Ndokosho, Director of Forestry at the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, affirmed his ministry’s support for the initiative while stressing collective responsibility for environmental conservation.

‘It’s great planting a tree but we all need to plant trees and care for them to ensure that they grow to serve their intended purpose,’ said Ndokosho.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency