Shifeta highlights value of trees, advocates for their protection

Environment minister Pohamba Shifeta has confirmed that a large tree that was felled last year in Helao Nafidi in the Ohangwena Region was used by criminals to conduct illegal activities. However, he emphasised that harming natural resources should always be a last resort.He urged law enforcement agencies to explore alternative methods of managing crime, rather than resorting to environmental damage.“At this stage the ministry is still investigating if this was part of the preventative measure or if it was simply an oversight on the part of the town council. Our message to all stakeholders is to protect our trees, and where trees have been cut down for one or other reasons, plant more trees instead.”Shifeta was speaking in response to questions raised in parliament regarding the removal of the tree last year. “I implore all stakeholders to always check with the ministry before any action is taken that could result in environmental damage. Taking care of the environment is each and every Namibian's responsibility and we are all expected to do just that,” he said, adding that "trees play an important role in the environment and should be protected at all costs."The minister added that the ministry was not approached to have any trees removed by the council or law enforcement."While we support law enforcement, we urge all stakeholders to ensure the environment is safeguarded at all costs.”Community tree Concern was raised when reports surfaced about the police having felled the tree, with many viewing the decision to cut it down as a loss to the community. The tree had often served as a central point for community gatherings and was used as an open market by the town's residents.Traders would sell traditional food, while others sold second-hand clothing under or near the tree.Shifeta said the tree in question was located in the Helao Nafidi town land and was cut down by town council employees following a joint operation led by the police. The operation identified the tree as being used by criminal elements for illegal activities, such as selling illegal fuel and contraband.“While the ministry regrets the cutting down of a big tree, which takes many years to reach that size, we encourage that more trees be planted to replace the felled ones in order to ensure environmental sustainability.”Awareness campaignShifeta added that the ministry did not issue any Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) for the tree's removal as it is not required to do so in the case of a single, unprotected tree.The minister underlined that tree removals still require a permit in accordance with the Forest Act.“Stakeholders are therefore requested to apply for permits before any tree is cut down. Similarly the cutting down of trees in large numbers and for commercial purposes is a listed activity which will attract an ECC.”He also added that the ministry has initiated awareness campaigns at all levels to educate Namibians on the importance of trees

Shifeta highlights value of trees, advocates for their protection

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-19

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Shifeta highlights value of trees, advocates for their protection

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-19

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