A total of 40 000 trees will be planted during September in a bid to boost South
Africa’s credentials, particularly during Arbor Month [September].
This was the message from the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries
Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu recently. She stated that the campaign had been
adopted by the government in 1996 in partnership with Total SA. “We have planted
trees in some recreational parks and cleaned the area around them. We urge the
community to preserve their parks and not to dump rubbish there. The trees will be
donated by the department in partnership with Total SA.”
The campaign is aimed at promoting awareness of the need to plant and maintain
indigenous trees especially for the many disadvantaged communities who often live
in barren and water-stressed areas.
At Ga-Rankuwa, North of Tshwane, in Zone 20 Library, City of Tshwane EPWP
workers have risen to the call and are taking full control by caring for trees and
flowers in the facility by watering and maintaining them, making sure that they live
long, healthy lives. One of the employees, Ouma Hlongwane, explained the
importance of planting trees. “It’s everyone’s duty to take care of the green heritage.
The value of trees is often underestimated. They are responsible for cleaning our air
and giving us so much more,” said Hlongwane.
