Northern Cape to benefit from 115,000 tree planting initiative

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has welcomed the launch of the One Million Trees Campaign, which was announced by Premier Dr Zamani Saul as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s flagship programme to plant one million trees throughout the country over the next five years, aimed at mitigating climate change.

Saul launched the campaign in Upington on Heritage Day at the Sandile Present Library, where a total target of 115,000 trees will be planted throughout the Northern Cape to restore degraded land and to ensure a healthier environment.

The Premier called on all South Africans, individuals, communities, businesses, government institutions, NGOs, and departmental employees to buy, pledge, or donate a tree towards achieving this national goal.

PSA provincial manager Steve Ledibane recognised the importance of this campaign as a meaningful step in mobilising government, the private sector, interfaith groups, business, non-governmental organisations (NGO's), and communities to take active measures against climate change.

"Planting trees is critical in improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions, and safeguarding future generations. Public servants, as citizens and service providers, will also benefit from greener and healthier environments in their workplaces and communities."

He pointed out that the Northern Cape required further environmental and developmental interventions in the face of severe drought, water scarcity, and deteriorating infrastructure that affect communities and workers.

"Planting trees will have limited impact unless supported by water-conservation projects, investment in renewable energy, and long-term maintenance of green spaces. The PSA further calls for the active inclusion of schools, hospitals, and government departments in this campaign, ensuring that public facilities where workers and citizens interact daily are prioritised. Such an approach will strengthen the combat against climate change and foster environmental awareness and responsibility across generations.

"The PSA is committed to partnering with the government in ensuring sustainable development, environmental protection, and improved living conditions for all residents of the Northern Cape. Planting trees is a step forward, but the government must go further by investing in resilient infrastructure and programmes that create jobs, protect natural resources, and safeguard the province’s future," Ledibane added.