The NSFM-Project hosted its first Panel Discussion for Zambezi Region in Katima Mulilo on 21 October 2021. The discussions’ topic was ‘Sustainable Forest Management – Key to Adding Value to Local Development’. This event is a component of a larger series of public discussions around the topic of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). The public discussion series takes place in Windhoek, Rundu and Katima Mulilo and is an integral part of the NSFM-Project funded by the European Union.
Four different experts were invited to shed light on the events’ topic. Moderated by Mr Brian Kabuku who also provided translations for the elderly participants, the Panel Discussion Event commenced with welcoming remarks as well as a slot for introduction and events’ objectives. Then, the podium belonged to the four invited experts, namely Ms Daisy Manungo, Forestry Expert, Ms Lushetile Lisao, Chief Forester at the Directorate of Forestry, Mr John Nipale, Chief Forester North-North-eastern Regions at the Directorate of Forestry, as well as Ms Lourdes Masasa, Local Development Expert. The panellists provided some food for thought. For instance, Ms Lisao requested the participants to go home with the question ‘How many trees have you planted in your life to replace the ones you used?’ or Ms Masasa urged the participants to ‘plant more, cut less trees’.
The event was honoured by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT), Hon. Heather Sibungo. She emphasised in her statement: “I believe Sustainable Forest Management is the most important concept that affects our future!’
The event concluded with the closing remarks and a get-together of speakers and participants.