The Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) led the provincial clean–up campaign which saw more than 50 trees being planted in various parts of Burgersdorp in the Joe Gqabi District Municipality.
The tree planting programme at the following locations:
- Eureka Clinic (5)
- Mzamomhle Clinic (4)
- Maruping Primary school (4)
- Eureka Primary school (4)
- Burgersdorp Recreational Park (8)
- Burgersdorp Library (8)
- Ethembeni Primary school (4)
- J.L De Bruyne (6)
- Okwethu Farm (5)
- Burgersdorp primary (4)
The main event took place in Eureka Community Hall, Burgersdorp on 21 September 2022 and began with tree planting in the Burgersdorp Primary School where the Regional Director, Dr Mzukisi Mboto officially planted the four trees with the school principal and other stakeholders. Handing over the trees, Dr Mboto explained why planting trees was important within the context of a clean, healthy environment.
Trees are well known and scientifically proven to provide oxygen, and reduce erosion, pollution, and flooding.
He pleaded with the principal and pupil to protect, nurture the trees and keep their school clean.
Outlining the purpose of the campaign in his main address, Dr Mboto said it seeks to remind stakeholders that environmental function is a shared responsibility of all spheres of government, other stakeholders, social actors, and communities in pursuit of a clean environment.
“Clean environment will have a significant contribution towards promoting economic growth, poverty eradication and tourism development. Clean healthy environment attracts tourists and investors and can be a source of income through waste recycling businesses,” said Dr Mboto.
In his closing, Dr Moto challenged stakeholders to go back to their townships and villages, note the waste around, devise ways and means of how best it can be managed, look for waste recycling opportunities it presents and make use of those for a cleaner environment.
The campaign took place from 20 to 21 September 2022 in partnership with community members, Walter Sisulu Local Municipality, sector departments, and non-governmental organisations. It is aimed at building partnerships with and mobilising stakeholders to participate in efforts to manage waste, reduce its negative effects and take advantage of economic opportunities that accrue from it.
