Umzimvubu Municipality marks Arbor Day with tree planting and environmental awareness for Youth
In celebration of Arbor Day, Umzimvubu Local Municipality, in collaboration with Alfred Nzo District Municipality, hosted a community-focused environmental awareness event on 9 September 2025 in KwaBhaca. The event aimed to instill a culture of environmental responsibility among young learners through tree planting, clean-up activities, and educational sessions.
The day’s programme placed a strong emphasis on educating learners about the critical role trees play in sustaining life. Topics included the importance of trees in improving air quality, combating climate change, and preserving biodiversity. Environmental experts also led informative sessions on deforestation, reforestation, and the relationship between climate change and forestry.
A tree planting initiative was held at St. George’s School, where ten trees were officially handed over to the school community. Learners planted trees alongside Portfolio Head for Citizen and Community Services, Cllr Noluvuyo Sonyabashi, Ward Councillor Cllr Jwara, and representatives from Alfred Nzo District Municipality and the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs. Learners were encouraged to take these lessons home and promote sustainable practices within their families.
Cllr Sonyabashi emphasized the broader significance of environmental care:
“A clean environment is not only about beauty, it’s about health, dignity, and opportunity. By properly disposing of waste, planting trees, and keeping public spaces tidy, we create safer neighborhoods and inspire future generations to value the land we share. A clean community is a strong community.”
The Municipality has called on all residents to take pride in their surroundings and contribute to building cleaner, greener communities.
As part of the ongoing Arbor Day programme, another handover of ten trees is scheduled for 10 September at Laduma SPS in EmaXesibeni.
