Sasol launches tree-planting campaign in Secunda

Sasol has launched its latest tree-planting campaign in Secunda, with indigenous trees being planted as part of a broader effort to promote greener public spaces and environmental awareness.

2 hours ago

Kerry Bird 2 minutes read

a group of people with a tree they want to plant — Thandi Twala (manager for Secunda and KZN Regional CSI Execution at Sasol), Dr Sarel Booyens (head of RSA CSI programme execution for Sasol), Rethabile Ndjibu (head of Community Relations and Social Investment for Sasol), Clr Nomkuosi Zulu (Gert Sibande District Municipalities Mayoral Committee for Community and Social Services), GMM's Chief Whip Clr Mabusa Mtsweni and GMM's public relations Clr Wilson Chauke. Photo: Kerry Bird

Sasol officially launched its Arbor Day tree planting campaign with a ceremonial planting event in PDP Kruger Street near the Vinkedam, opposite Builders Warehouse, on September 23.

The initiative is a partnership between Sasol, the Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), with support from environmental non-profit organisations and members of the local community.

The campaign forms part of the Presidency’s One Billion Trees Campaign, a national greening initiative aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and creating a more sustainable future.

This year’s theme is “My Tree, My Oxygen, Plant Yours Today”.

a man plants a tree — GMM's Mpho Tholo is digging a hole where the trees will be planted. Photo: Kerry Bird

Volunteers joined officials in planting indigenous tree species, including Wild Olive and Searsia lancea (Kareeboom), to enhance public green spaces in Secunda.

Thandi Twala, Sasol’s manager for Secunda and KwaZulu-Natal regional CSI execution, said trees play a vital role in environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

“Planting trees helps create greener and healthier communities while also reducing soil erosion. It is an investment in the future of our environment,” said Twala.

The ceremony marked the beginning of Sasol’s broader greening campaign, during which more than 1 300 trees will be planted across Secunda, Sasolburg, Industria and KwaZulu-Natal.

Two people work together to plant a tree — Planting a tree during the Sasol Arbor Day Tree Planting ceremony are GMM's Siphiwe Mbaswana and Titus Mthombeni. Photo: Kerry Bird

Within the Govan Mbeki municipal area, 50 trees will be planted in Secunda, Leandra, Evander, Trichardt and Bethal.

Dr Sarel Booyens, head of RSA CSI programme execution at Sasol, said the programme is about more than planting trees.

“To us, the environment and the effect the community has on the environment is of critical importance. It is necessary for us to be part of this programme to promote environmental education and awareness, ensuring that everyone understands the value of a tree and how it contributes towards government’s national tree-planting programme,” said Booyens.

He added that the focus is on planting trees in public and shared community spaces where residents can enjoy their environmental and social benefits for generations to come.