07/09/2026
T.P. SILILO LEARNERS LEARN THE POWER OF TREES DURING ARBOR MONTH
Learners at T.P. Sililo Secondary School in Tasbet Park, Emalahleni, have been inspired to become environmental champions after participating in a tree planting initiative aimed at promoting a cleaner, healthier, and greener future.
The Kakarambha Foundation, in partnership with Emalahleni Local Municipality, hosted an Arbor Month initiative at the school today,07 September 2026, where learners were educated about environmental conservation, the importance of trees, and the role communities can play in protecting nature.
The initiative formed part of South Africa’s annual Arbor Month campaign, which encourages tree planting and raises awareness about the benefits of trees, including cleaner air, biodiversity protection, and healthier communities.
T.P. Sililo Secondary School principal Mr. Herbert Mkandawiri welcomed the initiative, saying the learners gained valuable knowledge that will help them understand the importance of trees.
Kakarambha Foundation’s Thando Masango said the organisation believes partnerships are essential in educating communities about environmental responsibility. Masango said the initiative was particularly significant in Mpumalanga, a province known for its mining and coal production, where environmental awareness remains important.
Emalahleni Local Municipality representative Sisa Mhlanga said Arbor Month is a reminder that planting trees is an investment in future generations. “Every September, South Africa pauses to do something powerful, we plant trees. Arbor Week reminds us that a tree is one of the few gifts we are given which we may never sit under its shade, but the ones after us will,” said Mhlanga.
She added that this year’s Tree of the Year, the wild olive, symbolises resilience and strength, providing shelter for birds, food for wildlife, shade for communities, and contributing to biodiversity.
Mhlanga encouraged learners to view tree planting as more than just an activity, but as a responsibility towards creating sustainable communities.
“Each wild olive sapling we place into the ground today is a small promise for the future, a promise for cleaner air, cooler streets, richer biodiversity, and a greener Emalahleni for the children who will stand in the future,” he said.
The initiative highlights the importance of involving young people in environmental initiatives and empowering them to become custodians of the environment.
