The AfriForum branch in Margate planted ten trees at the Suid-Natal Primary and High Schools as part of the civil rights organisation’s arbour month project.
According to Mornay Sargent, Environmental Affairs Official at the AfriForum branch in Margate, the organisation intends on planting more than 2 000 trees countrywide this year. “By planting indigenous trees, we are not only simply busy conserving the environment and making it a more beautiful place in which to live, but it also shows that we have hope for the future. Trees are much more than simply an important part of the ecosystem or a natural resource without which no one will survive – it is also part of our heritage.”
AfriForum annually focuses on a tree species that is commonly found, as well as a rare tree species. The common tree for 2018 is the true yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius), while the rare tree is the shepherd’s bush (Boscia albitrunca). AfriForum encourages towns to plant indigenous trees that thrive in their surroundings.
“Arbour month offers the perfect occasion to make a real difference in our communities. However, trees are in need of continuous care to thrive and benefit everyone and the AfriForum branch in Margate and its youth members undertake to supply this care. This is symbolic of the fact that we are here to stay and have hope for the future,” says Wynand Kirchner, Youth Official of the AfriForum branch in Margate.
The branch encourages the community to become involved with the campaign and become part of a better and greener future.