POLOKWANE - Minister Buyelwa Sonjica, together with residents of Ga–Mashishi Village, will plant a tree at Seopeng Primary School next Thursday, September 2.

Water Affairs ands Forestry spokesperson Mr Avhashoni Magada said the ceremony will also serve as the launch of National Arbor Week celebrations, which take place from September 1 to 7. National Arbor Week was established to promote awareness of the need to plant and maintain indigenous trees, especially for the disadvantaged communities who often live in barren areas.

“This year’s Arbor Week celebrations, under the theme “Trees are our Heritage – Mehlare ke bohwa ba rena, will focus on the 10 years of forestry achievements, especially the role of forestry in the important context of sustainable development and poverty alleviation,” Magada said.

He said the Arbor Week campaign intends to promote a better understanding of trees, particularly indigenous trees. “It highlights the important role trees play in sustainable development and the livelihoods of people and their environment,” he said.

Magada encourages communities to participate in various greening activities within their own surroundings and raise awareness of South Africa’s urban greening initiatives.

In a statement, Minister Sonjica encourages individuals, communities, organisations, politicians and government leaders and organisations to participate in this year’s Arbor Week Celebrations.

He adds that forests form an important part of South Africa’s natural resource base and make a significant contribution to the economy. “The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry plays a key role in developing, managing and regulating the country’s resources,” Magada said. “The Department also manages commercial and indigenous forests, offers community forestry service and provides the policy and regulations for the sector as a whole,” he further said.

This year’s trees of the year are Kirkia Accuminata (White Seringa) and Combretum (Hiccup Nut).