Every year on June 5, since 1974, when the day was first observed in the United States, World Environment Day (WED) has been commemorated globally to remind people about the importance of nature, and never to take it for granted.

Under the global theme; 'Reimagine. Recreate. Restore.' And national theme dubbed, ‘Ecosystem Restoration’, Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW) joins the world, and particularly the United Nations (UN) which established World Environment Day in 1972, to generate awareness about the significance of nature.

Importantly, this year marks the beginning of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021 - 2030, intended to massively scale up the restoration of degraded and destroyed ecosystems to fight the climate crisis, prevent the loss of a million species and enhance food security, water supply and livelihoods.

Currently, 3.2 billion people – 40% of the world’s population – suffer from the continued degradation of ecosystems, hence the human population must resolve to bring about little changes in its lifestyle that can help restore the natural order of things.

Indeed, the air we breathe, the water we drink, the sun rays that reach us, and the food that we consume every day, are all gifts from the environment, and as such, it becomes imperative that environment is respected, and its value understood. An intricate cycle exists in a thriving environment where ecosystems provide habitat and is a source of food to animals and animals support the ecosystems through the food web, assist in pollination and provide carbon dioxide required for plants to live. The environment is a treasured resource, that must be protected and preserved as the survival of human beings and animals depend on it.

Pakistan is playing the global host, as Garissa County hosts WED national celebrations in Kenya to highlight the importance of ecosystem restoration this year. ANAW will commemorate the day by planting trees in Kereita forest remembering that when we protect the planet, we protect ourselves and our future generations.

At Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW), ecosystem restoration lies at the heart of our work as we plant trees, advocate, and campaign for animal habitat to stay untouched, create awareness and educate the public. We join hands with agencies that safeguard our animals and forests, judicial and enforcement pillars of society to protect and restore our ecosystems.
We call all to honor the earth, animals, and the environment to celebrate this special day. Wishing all of us a Happy World Environment Day 2021!

Josphat Ngonyo,

Executive Director, ANAW.