By Doh James Sonkey
Forestry and Wildlife Minister, Jules Doret Ndongo last March 21, 2025 planted some trees at the Ngondo site in Douala as part of activities organised by his Ministry to mark the commemoration of the International Day of the F
Speaking at the event, the Minister said the commemoration was also an opportunity to call the people of the Littoral region to actively participate in the reforestation process that the government is committed to protect the forest.
‘‘Your presence here is a testimony of your participation to reflect on actions for the preservation of this mystic and traditional site of mangrove. This ecosystem is important, given the industries planted around the city of Douala, he said.
Minister Jules Doret Ndongo reiterated that the government is committed to the proper management of the ecosystem and explained that, ‘‘the International Day of the Forest is an opportunity to celebrate the forest and its diversity, to highlight the importance of these ecosystems in the fight against climate change and to warn of the danger of their degradation.’’
The Forestry and Wildlife boss added that ‘‘the theme Forests and Food, highlighted the critical role forests play in food security and nutrition, providing a wide range of edible plants, animals and fungi as well as supporting sustainable agricultural practices and livelihoods.’’
Recall that forests are pillars of global food security and nutrition and are the livelihoods of millions of families worldwide. They provide essential foods such as fruits, seeds, roots and wild meat which are basic resources for indigenous and rural communities. They are a vital source of energy, provide wood for cooking, play a key role in agriculture by playing host to pollinators and contribute to soil enrichment, climate regulation and biodiversity conservation.
Forested watersheds supply freshwater to more than 85% of the world’s major cities and in times of crisis, forests become an economic and food lifeline, providing up to 20% of family income in rural areas and ensuring a healthy diet.