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Thursday, 7th September, 2023

ARBOR MONTH CELEBRATION AT SINQOBILE PRIMARY SCHOOL

Representatives from various stakeholders gathering around the tree after planting.

On the 7th of September 2023, Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA) joined other stakeholders and partners at Sinqobile Primary School to celebrate Arbor month. Arbor month is a time to plant trees and pay special attention to our environment and the role trees play in it. It is about raising awareness of the value of trees in society. Thus, this year's theme ''Forest and Health'' is a reminder that our health and lives depend on the environment. It serves to highlight key issues that include sustainable use of medicinal plants which play a significant role in health and socio-economic revitalisation of communities.

Tree planting demonstration

The objective of Arbor month is to further public knowledge of indigenous trees, stress the necessity of planting trees and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Hence, primary schools are targeted to teach children young about the importance of planting and conservating trees, ultimately, contributing positively to climate change.

Representatives from various stakeholders gathering around the tree after planting.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment representative Ms. Tshami Lithole noted that the planting of trees must not only be done in September, but ''t must be an everyday thing for the benefit of the plane'' she said. She further noted that trees are important in our lives because we get oxygen from them, however, they were experiencing harsh weather conditions due to climate change. Thus, it was imperative that more trees are planted to ensure that the environment stays protected.

Tree planting demonstration

The Executive Mayor, Counselor PP Magagula was represented by Counselor Mahlalela who delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he urged all attendees of the event to ''plant a tree each day, that way at least 1 million trees would have been planted by the end of the month'' he said. South Africa aims to plant 3.6 million hectares of trees by 2030 which is part of the forest landscape restoration initiative by African countries. The event was graced by various stakeholders including Bukhosi, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Department of Education, District Municipality, MTPA, Barberton Mines, FarmPack, Working on Fire, SANPARKS, Sinqobile primary students and teachers and many more.