AfriForum’s Vryburg creates hope during arbour month

As part of the civil rights organisation’s arbour month, the AfriForum branch in Vryburg planted 11 bush willow trees at the Preparatory School and three in the Concentration Camp Park.

According to Alta Pretorius, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for Stellaland, the organisation intends on planting more than 2 000 trees countrywide this year. “By planting indigenous trees, we are not simply conserving the environment and improving it aesthetically – we also show that we have hope for the future. Trees are not only an important part of the ecosystem or a natural resource, but it is also part of our heritage,” says Pretorius.

AfriForum annually focuses on a tree species that is commonly found, as well as a rare tree species. The common tree for 2018 is the true yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius), while the rare tree is the shepherd’s bush (Boscia albitrunca). AfriForum encourages towns to plant indigenous trees that thrive in their natural surroundings.

“Arbour month offers the perfect occasion to make a lasting difference in our communities. The Grade R learners of the Preparatory School was so enthusiastic about the project and have a remarkable knowledge of trees. This tree planting project is symbolic of the fact that we as AfriForum are here to stay and have sincere hope for the future,” concludes Pretorius.

The branch encourages the community to become involved with the campaign and become part of a greener future.