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The Alfred Nzo District Municipality (ANDM) celebrated Arbor Day on 23 September 2025 in Siphundu Village, Ward 09, under Umzimvubu Local Municipality in EmaXesibeni. The event featured tree planting, educational talks on environmental preservation, and calls to action against river pollution.
What Happened
In commemoration of Arbor Day, ANDM hosted a community-focused event in Siphundu Village, where ten trees were planted under the theme “My Tree, My Oxygen, Plant Yours Today.” The celebration emphasized environmental stewardship, responsible waste disposal, and sustainable living.
Speakers addressed pressing environmental concerns, including the misuse of rivers as dumping grounds for waste such as used nappies and dead animals practices linked to outbreaks of disease in rural areas. The event also reinforced the need to safeguard natural springs, animals, and green spaces for future generations.
Official Response
Councillor R. Nkomo-Khwela, who led the programme, said the initiative was part of the “One Million Trees Programme for Climate Change Adaptation” launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“This campaign is not just about planting trees; it’s about preserving life and preparing our communities for climate resilience,” said Councillor Nkomo-Khwela.
The municipality’s participation is aligned with national Arbor Month efforts to restore ecological balance and raise awareness of climate action in rural communities.
Community Impact
Residents of Siphundu Village engaged in the tree planting and listened attentively to warnings about the dangers of polluting water sources. Environmental education formed a core part of the session, leaving a strong message about community responsibility in preserving biodiversity.
The initiative is seen as a step forward in educating and empowering local people to play an active role in environmental protection, especially in rural and under-resourced areas of the district.
FAQ
- Why is Arbor Day important to rural communities?
It helps raise awareness about the role of trees in climate adaptation, promotes environmental health, and encourages sustainable practices in areas directly impacted by pollution and deforestation. - What is the ‘One Million Trees Programme’?
A national initiative by President Cyril Ramaphosa aiming to plant one million trees across South Africa to combat climate change and promote greener communities.
