The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (FSDARD) officially launched the province’s ambitious One Million Trees initiative on Heritage Day. This landmark programme, led by MEC Elzabe Rockman, forms part of the broader Presidential Ten Million Trees Flagship Programme and the National Greening initiative, demonstrating the province’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
The department said the One Million Trees initiative represents an ambitious five-year commitment to plant one million trees across the Free State. This strategic environmental programme coincides with two significant observances: Heritage Day on 24 September and Arbour Month, celebrated throughout September, creating a powerful symbolic connection between environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.
Operating under the theme “Forests and People: Investing in a Sustainable Future”, this year’s initiative addresses some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. The programme directly confronts climate change, biodiversity loss and the urgent need to create sustainable human settlements that will benefit both current and future generations.
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Multifaceted Environmental Benefits
The tree-planting initiative is designed to deliver comprehensive environmental and social benefits:
- Air and soil quality improvement: Enhanced environmental conditions through natural filtration systems;
- Climate change mitigation: Carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen release to combat greenhouse gas effects;
- Urban environmental enhancement: Reduction of urban heat islands and noise pollution;
- Human health and wellbeing: Mental health benefits and energy savings for communities; and
- Biodiversity conservation: Supporting local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
A Flagship Project in its Fourth Year
Now entering its fourth year, the One Million Trees initiative has evolved into a flagship project that mobilises South Africans from all sectors of society. The programme actively engages the three spheres of government alongside private sector partners, encouraging widespread participation through tree pledging and donation initiatives.
The department says the initiative serves as a crucial component of the National Greening Programme, which has an ambitious target of planting at least two million trees annually for five years. This systematic approach is designed to ensure the successful realisation of the Presidential Ten Million Trees Flagship Programme.
Also read: Forests and food: Communities plant groundnuts, veggies between the trees
This year’s Heritage Day launch saw the planting of more than 1 000 mixed indigenous and fruit trees across strategic locations in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, specifically in Bloemfontein and Bainsvlei. The department said the selection of indigenous species demonstrates the programme’s commitment to preserving local biodiversity while providing practical benefits through fruit-bearing varieties.
The launch ceremony featured the presentation of an Eco-School Certificate to Bainsvlei Combined School by MEC Rockman, highlighting the important role of educational institutions in environmental stewardship.
MEC Rockman and Heads of Departments Tshepo Mabilo from the FSDARD and Dr Mbulelo Nokwequ from the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) led the planting programme at Motheo TVET College and South Park and Phahameng cemeteries.
MEC Rockman encouraged people to plant trees and take care of the environment. Mr Makae from Motheo TVET College was the first person to plant and name a tree; he named it NADA (National Artisan Development Academy).
Nature Chief Conservator and Environmental officials assisted with the planting of trees and shared knowledge on how to water and take care of them. The Parks Manager from Mangaung Metro, Mr Lawrence Letshokgohla, led the planting process and emphasised the importance of the environment.
MEC Rockman acknowledged Savuka Foundation, the NGO that volunteered to clean and keep Phahameng Cemetery in order.
