Arbour month: AfriForum contributes to a greener future

The AfriForum branch in Boksburg planted five trees at Laerskool Goudrand as part of the civil rights organisation’s annual arbour month project.

According to Helen Bergh, AfriForum’s Boksburg chairperson, the organisation intends on planting more than 3 000 trees countrywide this year.

“By planting indigenous trees, we’re not only preserving our environment and making it a more beautiful place to live in, but we are also showing that we have hope for the future. Trees are much more than simply an important part of the ecosystem or an essential natural resource – trees are symbolic of life,” says Bergh.

Every year AfriForum focuses on a tree species that occurs commonly as well as a scarce tree species. The common tree for 2019 is the marula (Sclerocarya birrea), while the scarce tree is the apple leaf (Philenoptera violacea). AfriForum encourages its members to plant indigenous trees that thrive in their specific environments.

“Arbour month offers the perfect opportunity to make a lasting difference in our communities. However, trees need continuous care to thrive to the benefit of everyone and Laerskool Goudrand undertakes to provide this care. It is symbolic of the fact that we are here to stay and have hope for the future,” says Bergh.

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

Email marie.naude@afriforum.co.za to become involved in this branch’s environmental affairs.