South Africans plant over seven million trees in national greening drive
Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts said more than seven million trees have been planted since April thanks to the president’s presidential one billion trees programme.
South Africans have planted 7 134 711 trees since April 1 as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s presidential one billion trees programme.
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Bernice Swarts said the total showed a growing commitment to conservation, climate action and greener communities.
Read more: Ten million trees to be planted across South Africa on Heritage Day
Gauteng accounted for 1 012 051 of the trees, KwaZulu-Natal planted 1 052 494 and the Western Cape 2 053 786. The other provincial totals were Eastern Cape 736 692, Mpumalanga 519 512, Limpopo 518 023, Northern Cape 515 264, North West 400 619 and Free State 326 294.
“I am pleased that South Africans from all walks of life have embraced the presidential one billion trees programme and contributed to the planting of more than seven million trees since the start of the current financial year,” Swarts said.
“The planting of these trees contributes significantly towards the president’s vision of planting one billion trees, and strengthens South Africa’s efforts to combat climate change, while creating greener and healthier communities.
“I wish to thank every South African who has participated in this important national initiative and encourage those who have not yet taken part to join the one billion trees movement.”
The department said participation increased during the Heritage Day tree-planting campaign on September 24. Ramaphosa activated the campaign by planting a tree at Bongolethu Stadium in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape.
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Planting then took place in all nine provinces, led by premiers, environment MECs, municipalities, traditional leaders, businesses, community organisations and residents.
Swarts led the national Heritage Day event at Freedom Park in Salvokop, Pretoria, where she was joined by ambassadors, high commissioners and members of the diplomatic corps.
“I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to all ambassadors, high commissioners and members of the diplomatic corps who joined us in this important initiative. Your participation demonstrates the global commitment required to address environmental challenges and build a sustainable future for all,” she said.
The programme is intended to support sustainable settlements and the protection, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The department said it also advances South Africa’s work on the sustainable development goals linked to good health and well-being, sustainable cities and communities, climate action, and life on land.
Swarts encouraged people to keep planting throughout the year and to register trees at https://10milliontrees.dffe.gov.za/10milliontrees/home by uploading a photograph and GPS co-ordinates so the department can track participation and monitor growth and survival.
More information is available at https://www.dffe.gov.za.
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