Today, 23rd October 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture through the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI) joined Mount Makulu Secondary School in Chilanga to mark Zambia’s 61st Independence Anniversary with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony.
The event was graced by Mr. Lemmy Kafwamfwa, Acting Permanent Secretary (Administration), under the theme: “61 Years of Peace and Unity: Building a Resilient and Prosperous Zambia.” In his remarks, Mr. Kafwamfwa emphasized that true development goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to promoting sustainable and climate-smart agriculture. He noted that the integration of trees into farming systems improves soil health, enhances food and nutrition security, and strengthens resilience against climate change.
A total of 61 fruit
trees including loquats, guava, orange, avocado, and lemon were gifted to the school, each symbolizing a year of Zambia’s independence. The trees will provide fruit, shade, and nutrition, contributing to both environmental restoration and community well-being.
trees including loquats, guava, orange, avocado, and lemon were gifted to the school, each symbolizing a year of Zambia’s independence. The trees will provide fruit, shade, and nutrition, contributing to both environmental restoration and community well-being.In her welcome remarks, the Head Teacher of Mount Makulu Secondary School highlighted that global warming is a real threat and urged everyone to care for our trees. She further described trees as “a symbol of hope and the lungs of our health.”
Mr. Kafwamfwa commended ZARI for providing seedlings and encouraged farmers and institutions to access improved seedlings and technical advice to diversify farms and improve incomes.
The event concluded with a call to action for all Zambians, schools, communities, and households to plant more trees and contribute to building a greener, healthier, and more resilient Zambia.
