The AfriForum branch in Germiston planted five trees at Afrikaanse Hoërskool and two trees at Elspark Primary in Germiston as part of the civil rights organisations’ arbour month.
According to Elize Hern, Spokesperson for AfriForum’s Germiston branch, the organisation aims to plant more than 2 000 trees across the country.
“By planting indigenous trees, we aren’t merely conserving the environment and making it a nicer place to live in, but we are also showing that we have hope for the future. Trees are more than just an important part of the ecosystem or a natural resource without which no one can survive – these are also part of our heritage,” says Hern.
AfriForum annually focuses on a tree species that is commonly found, as well as rare tree species. The common tree for 2018 is the real yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius), while the scarce tree is the shepherd’s tree (Boscia albitrunca). AfriForum encourages towns to plant indigenous trees that do well in their areas.
“Arbour month provided the perfect opportunity to make a lasting difference in our communities. However, trees need constant care to flourish to the benefit of all and the AfriForum branch in Germiston undertakes to provide this care. It symbolises the fact that we are here to stay and have hope for the future,” concludes Hern.
The branch encourages the community to become involved with the campaign and to become part of a greener future.
AfriForum would like to thank the Wildflower Nursery for the donation of the trees.