Speaker Dr Mohono Leads Tree Planting Drive in Ledig Schools

The Honourable Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, Dr. Desbo Mohono, took part in a tree planting initiative on Thursday, 18 September 2025, as part of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s (CPA) environmental program.

The event, hosted in Ledig, started at Mperebere Primary School before moving to Itumeleng Secondary and Tswaidi High Schools, where learners joined in planting trees on their school grounds.

Dr. Mohono encouraged communities to plant and nurture trees, emphasizing that trees are a living legacy. “It’s important to take care of trees, to water them, and to protect them as they grow. It’s even better to give them names so that we develop a sense of responsibility towards them,” she said.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to address environmental sustainability beyond the annual Arbor Month activities. It also aims to instill a culture of conservation and environmental awareness among learners and communities.

Caucus Leader of the Democratic Alliance in the North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile, welcomed the program, noting that tree planting goes beyond beautification. “This project highlights the many environmental benefits of trees, from combating climate change to protecting biodiversity,” he said.

Environmental experts highlight five key benefits of trees:

Absorbing Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Trees reduce greenhouse gases and fight climate change.

Producing Oxygen: Through photosynthesis, trees release oxygen vital for life.

Supporting Biodiversity: Trees provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and wildlife.

Preventing Soil Erosion: Roots strengthen the soil and reduce land degradation.

Climate Regulation: Trees provide shade, cooling, and natural windbreaks.

The tree planting initiative is expected to continue across other communities in the province, reinforcing the Legislature’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.