24 March 2021

The Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Makhotso Sotyu will participate in a webinar marking the International Day of Forests on tomorrow, Thursday 25 March 2021.

The webinar brings together stakeholders from the government, industry representatives, scientists and labour to deliberate on the implementation of South Africa’s Forestry Sector Master Plan, whose goal is to increase investment, jobs and competitiveness, underpinned by greater inclusivity in the forestry sector. In addition, deliberations will cover pertinent issues such as deforestation and restoration, forestry and food security as well as the value of trees in urban areas.

Cabinet last year approved the Commercial Forestry Sector Master Plan for South Africa (2020-2025). The Master Plan has been agreed upon by the industry, government and labour. The plan balances environmental, economic and social benefit from the forestry resources.

International Day of Forests is commemorated annually in March, to recognise the benefits and value of forests in the wellbeing of the wildlife and human livelihood. This year’s commemoration is organised under the theme: “Forest Restoration: A path to recovery and well-being”. The theme emphasises that restoration and sustainable management of forests can help address climate change and biodiversity crisis, and is in line with the United Nations’ Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030).

Members of the media are invited to attend the webinar as per the details below:

Date:               Thursday 25 March 2021
Time:              09:30
Link:                https://rebrand.ly/f83mb41

To RSVP contact:
Ernest Mulibana
Cell: 082 263 7372
E-mail: EMulibana@environment.gov.za

For media queries contact:
Albi Modise
Cell: 083 490 2871