EnviroPress Reporter
This year’s session of the groundbreaking initiative to harness the therapeutic power of nurturing trees to promote mental well-being was successfully conducted in the Kuwadzana high density suburb of Harare.
Known as the Tree Care Therapy for Mental Health, the programme has become one of the Greening Kuwadzana Project’s signature initiatives.
Held at least three times a year, the programme brings together Greening Kuwadzana Project and Ndinewe Foundation, a mental health advocacy group.
This particular session, which was held on October 12, 2024, combined the calming act of caring for young trees with the expressive outlet of art therapy.
The event was well-attended, and many participants found solace in expressing their emotions through drawing, with several attendees sharing how the experience helped clear their minds and lift their spirits.
“We are pleased with the response to this initiative by community members that have benefitted from it. This demonstrates that more people are getting to appreciate the critical role that trees play not only in the natural environment, but in the health and psychological wellbeing of the people.
“By fostering a connection with nature and providing a safe space for self-expression, this programme is a shining example of innovative mental health support and climate action,” said Tafadzwa Gwini, who is the team leader for Greening Kuwadzana.
Gwini expressed gratitude to Yolk Africa for being a steadfast supporter of the initiative in recognition of the profound impact that nature-based therapy can have on mental health.
Since its inception in 2021, the Tree Care Therapy for Mental Health programme has made a substantial difference in the lives of participants.
Other stakeholder that were part of the event were Black Crystal Consulting, Securico Security Service, Climate Newsroom, Restore Eden and students from University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Department of Social Innovation and Community Development.
