Celebrated annually on March 21st, World Forestry Day serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role forests play in sustaining our planet. This year’s theme, "Forests and Food" highlights the indispensable contributions of forests to food security, nutrition, livelihoods, and ecological balance. Additionally, forests are vital to the health of our planet and all living beings, acting as the Earth’s lungs by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, thereby combating climate change. They provide habitat for countless species, regulate water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and supply essential resources such as timber, medicine, and food, which sustain millions of livelihoods worldwide. Beyond their environmental and economic value, forests hold profound cultural and spiritual significance for many communities. Protecting and preserving forests is not only an environmental imperative but also a necessity for the survival and well-being of future generations.
Ensuring the survival and thriving of forests is a fundamental priority for the Government of Seychelles in the Forestry Sector and a key strategic objective of the Department of Environment for 2025 and beyond. To achieve this, the Department of Environment has aligned its efforts with the newly approved Sustainable Forest Management Policy (2024), which aims to manage and protect all forests and woodlands within Seychelles as national heritage and renewable resources. This policy ensures the provision of essential natural goods and services to support the well-being of current and future generations.
As part of ongoing innovations and revitalization efforts, the Government of Seychelles plans to implement campaigns to reforest eroded and degraded areas, develop policies and action plans for the sustainable use of forest resources, and prioritize the control and eradication of alien invasive species. Additionally, efforts will focus on rehabilitating native forests under ongoing projects, all with the aim of conserving and effectively managing forests to accommodate diverse land uses. Furthermore, legal framework such as the existing Breadfruit and Other Trees Act will be revised in 2025 to strengthen the protection of fruit trees, thereby safeguarding food security for the nation.
Nationally, to mark World Forestry Day this year, several tree-planting activities will be organized in alignment with this year’s theme, "Forests and Food", with a focus on planting fruit and breadfruit trees. These initiatives underscore the importance of forests in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
As we celebrate this day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting, conserving, and sustainably managing our forests. These vital ecosystems are integral to our everyday lives, and by embracing innovation, fostering education, and strengthening partnerships, we can ensure that forests continue to thrive for generations to come. Together, let us take bold steps to safeguard our forests, recognizing their irreplaceable role in sustaining life and securing a sustainable future for all.
Happy World Forestry Day!