By Jemosop Faith, Faith specializes in energy, climate, and renewables, transforming complex policy discussions into accessible, everyday conversations, she is a writer at Africa Digest News backed by 2+ years of focused experience
“South Africa has designated Sept. 24, 2025, as a national tree planting day, aiming to ‘plant 1 million trees in a single day‘ to help combat climate change,” a senior South African official announced on Tuesday.
This bold declaration sets the stage for a nationwide effort that will transform landscapes and demonstrate a powerful commitment to environmental sustainability. Imagine a nation united, shovels in hand, contributing to a monumental act of reforestation. This isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a tangible step towards mitigating the impacts of climate change and building a greener future for all.
South Africa, like many countries, faces the escalating challenges of climate change. Urban areas, in particular, are experiencing the intensified effects of the “urban heat island effect,” where concrete and infrastructure contribute to soaring temperatures. This national tree planting day recognizes the critical role of urban forests in cooling cities, purifying the air, and enhancing the overall well-being of its residents.
The inspiration for this green revolution draws deeply from the legacy of Wangari Maathai and her Green Belt Movement, Which began in Kenya in 1977, led to the planting of over 31 million trees. This remarkable achievement, along with her tireless advocacy for environmental conservation and women’s rights, earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004..
Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts, during her announcement at the second African Forum on Urban Forests in Johannesburg, highlighted this connection. Maathai’s unwavering belief in the power of community-driven environmental action serves as a guiding light, reminding us that collective efforts can indeed create transformative change.
“This ambitious initiative will contribute to creating sustainable settlements and mitigating the impact of climate change,” Swarts stated, emphasizing the dual purpose of this endeavor. This is not a solitary government undertaking. South Africa is extending an invitation to a broad coalition—”all government entities across all three spheres of government, community-based organizations, non-government organizations, the corporate sector, and citizens”—to join forces in this green revolution.
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This initiative also builds upon South Africa’s existing environmental efforts, including National Arbor Month and the ongoing tree-planting programs of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE). The DFFE’s commitment to planting two million trees annually underscores a dedication to reforestation that this one-day event will significantly amplify. As evident on the DFFE website, their focus on themes like “Forests and sustainable production and consumption” in past initiatives demonstrates a long-term vision.
Ahmadu Babagana, representing the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), emphasized the “immense potential” of urban forests and green spaces. He highlighted their role in creating “healthier, more resilient, and more inclusive places for all,” emphasizing the critical contributions of urban forests to air quality, climate regulation, and public health. “The FAO is committed to working with stake holders to ensure green spaces contribute to ecological sustainability,” he added.
However, the success of this initiative will rely on more than just the sheer number of trees planted. Prioritizing indigenous tree species, which are better adapted to local ecosystems and provide greater ecological benefits, is crucial. As shown by information from Capenature, there is a strong focus on planting indigenous trees, and avoiding planting trees in areas that are naturally grasslands. Furthermore, implementing sustainable forest management practices is essential to ensure the long-term survival and health of these newly planted trees.
This one-day, one-million-tree goal is more than a symbolic gesture; it’s a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. It’s a call to action, an invitation for every citizen to participate in building a legacy of environmental stewardship. As September 24, 2025, approaches, the world will be watching, hopeful, as South Africa plants not just trees, but seeds of profound change.
