Activity 6
On March 24, 2023, a remarkable event was organized by the Manica Youth Assembly (MAYA) in partnership with POPZim, in collaboration with Mutanda Primary School and Mutare City Council. The event took place at Mutanda Primary School in Mutare, Zimbabwe.

The main objective of the event was to plant trees, educate the young participants, and inspire their active involvement in the fight for climate justice. A total of 20 trees, including mahogany, silver oak, and privet, were planted during the event. The engagement with the school provided an opportunity to interact with the grade five and six students, as well as their patrons. The background and mission of MAYA and its partner, POP Zimbabwe, were introduced, emphasizing the importance of the event. An environmental officer delivered a speech on the significance of trees, and the young participants actively shared their knowledge on the importance of tree planting. Mr. Kudherezera provided specific insights into the trees being planted, including their names. This approach proved effective in ensuring that the environmental club members grasped the purpose and significance of tree planting. Their enthusiastic participation demonstrated their existing knowledge, which was further nurtured and strengthened.

Notable commitments were made by the environmental club’s patrons, who pledged to care for the trees and involve the children in watering them. The event highlighted pressing environmental issues, such as deforestation resulting from human activities like urbanization and agriculture. The solution proposed was reforestation and afforestation, which led to the organization of the tree planting day. One primary advocacy issue emerged: the need to reduce illegal tree cutting and prioritize tree planting instead. As a result of this event, a partnership was formed with Mutanda Primary School, with a shared commitment to addressing environmental and other pertinent issues. The children were also given future opportunities to showcase their dedication to the club, as a quiz competition on environmental protection will be organized, with awards for the most outstanding students. This initiative aims to motivate them to study diligently and gain extensive knowledge as future champions for climate justice.

The objectives of the activity were successfully achieved, as a school environmental club was formed, trees were planted, and the participants gained awareness of MAYA’s mission and operations. The children now have a comprehensive understanding of the crucial role tree planting plays in the fight for climate justice.

The impact of the activity surpassed the participants’ expectations. The children displayed excitement as they actively participated in tree planting and enthusiastically fetched water for the newly planted trees. All the set targets were successfully met, with all the trees planted within the allocated time frame. The event directly impacted 100 students and teachers, while indirectly reaching 2000 more students and teachers.

Looking ahead, it is crucial to organize educational campaigns in schools to raise environmental awareness. Additional activities, such as clean-ups and tree planting initiatives, should be planned to further engage students and foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability. By instilling these values at a young age, we can shape future generations of environmental stewards who will actively contribute to a greener and more sustainable world.