forest food continue to flood markets in Africa
By Ngalame Elias
The Afican Forest Forum, AFF has joined global call for the sustainable protection of forest by planting more trees, ensuring food supply,on the occasion of the celebration of the 2025 World Forest Day. The Secretariat of AFF to this end has organized a global conversation on the topic “If you could plant one tree to symbolize your vision for a greener, food-secure Africa, which tree would it be and why?”
The objective according to AFF is to raise awareness, plant trees, and create a lasting impact. Participants share their thoughts and ideas, celebrating the power of trees in building a sustainable future
The discussions, exchange on the occasion of the 2025 World Forest Day,WFD, under the theme,”Forests and Food,” highlights how forests are not just habitats for wildlife, they also provide food, medicine, and livelihoods for millions across Africa and beyond.
Forest Stakeholders via AFF’s African Community Workspace are contributing their thoughts and plan of action to drive this year’s message of WFD.
The dialogue according to AFF is part of the celebration of the International Day of Forests 2025, highlighting the importance of trees for life. Participants express their preference for planting particular trees depending on its benefits and environmental contributions.
According to forest stakeholders, this day serves as a reminder of the many ways in which forests benefit not only the environment but also the communities and economies that depend on them. With themes focused on biodiversity, sustainability, and food security, World Forest Day offers an opportunity to educate and inspire global action to protect these vital ecosystems, experts say.
This day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, serves as a global platform to emphasize the vital role forests play in preserving ecological balance, fostering biodiversity, and securing food resources. Forests host a rich array of ecosystems, home to millions of species of plants, animals, insects, and birds, each contributing to the delicate harmony of the natural world.
The AFF organized discussion also culminates with another discourse on “Africa’s green future depends on its youth!”
AFF notes that the dedication of the youths to conservation, restoration, and sustainable management is crucial for ensuring that forests continue to support communities, strengthen food security, and combat climate change.
Through interactive Chat discussions, Live Webinars and expert insights that will run from 31st March to 4th April, 2025, AFF and stakeholders will be empowering the next generation to tackle environmental challenges head-on.
AfricanYouth4Forests
“This Community of Practice is a collaborative initiative led by the African Forest Forum (AFF) in partnership with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) and the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) under the AfricanYouth4Forests (AY4F) project,” says AFF.
“It serves as an interactive platform where members can exchange ideas, share best practices, and co-create innovative solutions to advance forest conservation, climate resilience, and green economy opportunities. Whether you’re a student, activist, or professional, your participation is vital in driving meaningful change.”
Youths are expected through this knowledge sharing program to learn from experts and enhance your skills through interactive webinars and knowledge-sharing sessions, engage in thought-provoking discussions on pressing environmental challenges and solutions, collaborate on initiatives that promote sustainable forestry and green economy opportunities, network with like-minded peers to strengthen advocacy and influence policy efforts.