As a symbolic gesture of sustainable environmental management and to mark the beginning of Arbor Month, Executive Mayor Francis Makgatho on Friday planted 30 indigenous trees in Ward 15, Kagiso 1. The tree planting initiative which was done in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, coincided with the month of September that also celebrates tourism, heritage and the public service.
When interviewed, Councilor Makgatho said the initiative endeavors to involve civil society, private sector, non-governmental and community based organisations in greening their communities. He further explained that the municipality is in the process of rolling out a greening project geared at beautifying Mogale City, planting more trees and better promoting improved managing of vegetation in both urban and rural areas.
“Many of us do not know but trees play an important role in our lives as they are a source of life which provides us not only with oxygen and shade on a sunny day but trees also serve as a shield during stormy seasons and prevent soil erosion. In understanding the significance of trees in our environment, it is therefore very important for us to continue planting as many trees as possible and to educate each other about the importance of having trees in our environment,” the mayor concluded.
Accompanying the Executive Mayor were Members of the Mayoral Committee Norman Sedumedi, Betty Mdlane, Francinah Chohledi who is responsible for Integrated Environmental Management in Mogale City and local Ward 15 Councillor Saki Mangole.