Mayor Lucky Sele planted more than 80 trees at Mogorosi Park in Kagiso recently to officially launch Arbor Month.

According to Sele, the initiative not only beautifies the area but also creates shade and improves air quality, a legacy described as ‘a treasure for generations to come’.

The launch, held under the theme ‘Plant Trees, Breathe Easy’, forms part of the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s One Million Tree Planting Programme, which aims to plant a million trees across Gauteng by September 24.

Mogale City has been allocated 7 600 trees to plant across the municipality as part of this drive.

“Trees are vital to the environment, reducing air pollution, absorbing carbon dioxide, preventing soil erosion, and conserving water, while also providing shade and improving quality of life. For Mogorosi Park, a key recreational space in Ward 11, the planting marks a transformation. Once a park without shade, it now offers greener, more inviting spaces for children and families to enjoy,” said Mogale City Local Municipality’s (MCLM) communications officer, Refilwe Mahlangu.

Sele emphasised the broader significance of the initiative.

“This allocation is not just about statistics; it is a bold commitment to ensure that communities of Mogale City have access to cleaner air, greener spaces, and a healthier environment.”

He further encouraged residents to care for the park and nurture the newly planted trees so that future generations can enjoy their benefits.

Mahlangu said that trees planted included Combretum erythrophyllum and Searsia Lancea, both known for their shade and greenery. In addition, 20 peach trees were handed over to local households, encouraging fruit tree planting in family yards.

The mayor was joined by his MMC for Infrastructure Development, Peter Modise and MMC for Integrated Environment Management, Xolile Mkruquli.