For the past 15 years, Thinandavha Goodman Ravhutsi (41) has been dedicated to preserving rare indigenous trees and fruits for future generations.
Ravhutsi, who lives in Makonde Siawoadza, developed a deep appreciation for indigenous plants when he moved to the area in 2009. At the time, Siawoadza was a newly established settlement, covered in dense bush and rich in indigenous flora. However, many of his neighbours cleared the land to make way for their homes, destroying these valuable plants in the process.
Instead of cutting them down, Ravhutsi chose to preserve the plants in his yard, ensuring their survival for future generations. Today, his home has become a mini tourist attraction, drawing visitors eager to see these rare and increasingly scarce plants. Among the indigenous trees he has preserved are Muramba, Mukolokote, Mutondowa, Muvhula, Musese, Muhatu, Musalamarubini, and Mututulwa. Many of these trees bear wild fruits that are beloved by locals.
"When we were growing up, these indigenous trees were abundant, and it pains me to see them being destroyed. If you walk around this village today, it will be extremely difficult to find any of these sacred trees. People have recklessly cut them down, yet they now come to my home to see or show their children this important part of our history," he said.
Ravhutsi takes pride in seeing local people visit his yard to collect wild fruits they can no longer find elsewhere. "I let them pick the fruits free of charge because my goal is not to make money, but to preserve these trees and their fruits for everyone to appreciate," he explained.
He urged those who still have indigenous trees on their properties to protect them rather than destroy them. "If we don't preserve these trees, who will? If we fail to do so, our grandchildren will be disappointed in us for not safeguarding their heritage. These special trees are disappearing like smoke in the air," he warned.