24/03/2026
In commemoration of the International Day of Forests, which is held annually on 21st March, WECSZ LUSAKA BRANCH joined efforts with WCP Zambia, National Prosecution Authority โ NPA, and the Forestry Department and held a tree planting ceremony at Nkwazi Primary School in Lusaka. Commemorated under the theme โForests and Economies,โ the event was graced by Mr Gilbert A. Phiri โ Director of Public Prosecutions, and attracted the participation of over 200 pupils.
In his key note address, Mr Gilbert Phiri admonished the pupils to become proactive stewards of Zambiaโs forests and its diverse resources. โWhen we protect forests, we protect the lives of everyone; when we destroy them, we steal from ourselves. When we plant the trees today, we are doing more than putting a seedling in the ground. We are planting clean air for your children that will come after you to breathe; we will be providing a cool shade for your grandchildren to play under,โ he said.
To the teachers and other stakeholders, he said โEnvironmental crime is not a minor offence. Illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and destruction our natural heritage are serious crimes; they rob communities of resources, undermine our economy, and threaten the future of our children.โ He reiterated that anyone who breaches the environmental laws of Zambia shall be apprehended and prosecuted.
After reminding the pupils and other stakeholders on the significance of forests in powering thriving economies, WECSZ Lusaka Branch education officer โ Mr Sikela Namangolwa left a heart-provoking call to action. Addressing the learners, he said โyou are the next generation of CEOs, scientists, and leaders. Todayโs interactive sessions are designed to show you that protecting a tree is not just an act of kindnessโit is a smart business decision for your future. When we plant trees today, we are not just planting roots; we are planting the seeds of a sustainable bioeconomy.โ
To the representatives of partner institutions, he emphasized that forests' conservation is a multi-sectoral priority. โWhether it is through the legal frameworks of the NPA or the conservation efforts of WECSZ and WCP, we must ensure that our economic growth never comes at the expense of our natural capital.โ
To conclude the commemorative event, Mr Sikela Namangolwa finally led the audience in an interactive tree planting exercise. In demonstration of his unwavering commitment to forest and environmental conservation, Mr Gilbert Phiri dipped the first tree into the soil. With witness by an enthusiastic audience of pupils, the second tree was gracefully dipped into the soil by Mr Simwaba โ Headteacher at Nkwazi Primary School. The pupils keenly participated in the exercise while asking intriguing questions about forest conservation.
