On September 1st, 2023, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms. Makhotso Sotyu, will launch National Arbor Month, a month-long celebration dedicated to raising awareness of the critical need to conserve, protect, and plant trees for both environmental and human benefits.
The Theme for National Arbor Month
This year’s theme, “Forests & Health,” emphasizes the crucial role played by forestry and tree planting in creating sustainable, healthy communities. Forests provide a myriad of health benefits, including nutritious food sources, medicinal plants, fresh air, clean water, and spaces for recreation.
The Launch of National Arbor Month in Polokwane
To mark the official launch of the 2023 National Arbor Month campaign, Deputy Minister Sotyu will visit several noteworthy locations in Polokwane. These include the Green Project Low-Cost Housing in Ext 78, Seshego Healthcare Clinic, and the Matongoni Recycling Facility. She will also lead tree-planting activities and officiate the National Arbor City Awards (NACA) ceremony.
The National City Arbor Awards
The NACA awards are presented to deserving municipalities that have made exemplary contributions to the Ten Million Trees Programme and have successfully incorporated greening initiatives into their projects. Schools that have initiated and implemented greening projects will also be honored during the evening’s festivities.
Celebrating National Arbor Month
By celebrating National Arbor Month, South Africans are reminded of the invaluable services provided by forests and the vital role trees play in sustaining the health and well-being of communities. The Arbor City Awards also encourage municipalities and schools to adopt environmentally responsible practices, creating greener, cleaner, and more resilient cities for generations to come.
The Schedule of Events
The schedule of events for the launch includes site visits to various locations in Polokwane. These events are as follows:
Part 1: Site Visits
– Date: 01 September 2023
– 10:30 Venue: Dwars Street, New Polokwane, Green Project Low-Cost Housing in Ext 78
– 11:00 Venue: Seshego Zone 2 Clinic
– 11:30 Venue: Matongoni Recycling Facility
– 12:00 Venue: Seshego Zone 2 opposite the Fun Park
Part 2: National City Arbor Awards
– Date: 01 September 2023
– Time: 18:00
– Venue: Fusion Hotel, Polokwane
Invitation for the Launch
Members of the media are invited to attend the launch events and witness this momentous occasion firsthand. Interested parties can contact Noma Bolani at nbolani@dffe.gov.za or 066 112 3746, or Sandile Shangase at sshangase@dffe.gov.za or 073 815 9838 to RSVP.
The Importance of National Arbor Month
As the month of September unfolds, citizens of Polokwane and across South Africa can look forward to a myriad of events and initiatives aimed at promoting the importance of trees and forests in their lives. The launch of National Arbor Month and the prestigious Arbor City Awards ceremony serve as important reminders of the collective responsibility we all share in preserving and enhancing the natural environment for the health and prosperity of our communities.
