KDSG spends N8m on tree nurseries
Mr Anthony Kachiro, Director, Ministry for Environment disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Kaduna.He said some of the materials, including polythene bags, waters sprinklers, manure and top soil, were used to raise 10,000 tree seedlings distributed free to the public.Kachiro said the seedlings were raised in four nurseries located in Kaduna, Zaria, Kafanchan […]
Mr Anthony Kachiro, Director, Ministry for Environment disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Kaduna.
He said some of the materials, including polythene bags, waters sprinklers, manure and top soil, were used to raise 10,000 tree seedlings distributed free to the public.
Kachiro said the seedlings were raised in four nurseries located in Kaduna, Zaria, Kafanchan and Birnin Gwari.
He said: “The production of the seedlings is part of the government’s effort to control desert encroachment in the state. These seedlings have been distributed free of charge to the 23 local governments of the state, members of the public, schools and communities. We also planted 10 hectares plantations of palm trees in Sanga Forest Reserve in Jema’a Local Government Area in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment.’’
The Director called for a review of existing laws against the felling of trees as part of efforts to stop desert encroachment.
He said, “the laws on tree felling need to be reviewed with heavier fines, as the punishment is not being felt any longer.”
Kachiro also lamented that trees planted by the government were being destroyed by animals and residents, including those engaged in selling fire wood.
He said the department was constrained by the limited number of forest rangers and inadequate vehicles to reduce the rate of tree felling in the state.
The director, however, said government had purchased 500 stoves for distribution to members of the public at subsidised rate.
He said the stoves were being fired by coal, adding that the gesture would reduce dependance on firewood for cooking.
Kachiro urged the people to cultivate the culture of planting, protecting and nursing trees to maturity. (NAN)