Media statement 7 November 2023
Cllr Ziyanda Zwane
MMC for Environment and Agriculture Management
The City of Tshwane, in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, launched a Tree Planting Programme in Ga-Rankuwa on 6 November 2023.
The 10 million Tree Planting Programme is a national call to plant trees with at least 2 million being planted every year over a period of five years. The aim of the programme is to attain environmental sustainability and protection, and to realise socio-economic benefits for South Africans.
At least 2 000 Mangifera indica, commonly known as mango trees, will be planted in Ga-Rankuwa Zone 10, 20 and 24, which is a predominantly low-cost housing suburb. Mango trees are known to grow well in tropical and subtropical climates, which renders Ga-Rankuwa a suitable climatic area to plant mango trees.
The project will offer an opportunity for job creation through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). During the implementation of the project, 25 job opportunities will be created for a period of 22 days and these opportunities will benefit the communities of Ga-Rankuwa Zone 10, 20 and 24.
Through this project, the Environment and Agriculture Management Department, in partnership with the City of Tshwane, hopes to contribute to the maintenance and integrity of the environment as well as to play a significant role in biodiversity conservation, social food security and the physical well-being of the people living in Ga-Rankuwa.
Enquiries:
Dr Pimelo Ngidi