Free State MEC Leads Indigenous Tree Planting and EPWP Initiatives in Letsemeng

On 7 February, the Free State MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Elzabe Rockman, led the planting of around 150 indigenous trees at eight early childhood development centers in Bohlokong, Petrusburg, within the Letsemeng Local Municipality. During the event, garden tools including forks, rakes, watering cans, shovels, wheelbarrows, vegetable seeds, and organic pellets were handed over, alongside appointment contracts for 40 participants in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). This initiative forms part of the 1 Million Tree Campaign under the Presidential Ten Million Tree Flagship Project, which aims to plant five million trees over five years through the National Greening Programme. The campaign seeks to promote sustainable environmental practices, community participation, poverty alleviation, and job creation, contributing to social and economic development.

Chief Director for Environmental Quality and Protection, Nozi Nkoe, highlighted the multiple benefits of trees, including providing oxygen, medicinal resources, shade, preventing soil erosion, and protecting structures from strong winds. She emphasized that such initiatives create awareness of forestry opportunities while improving local livelihoods. EPWP contracts officially commence on 10 February 2026, aligning with new financial cycles, and are designed to provide temporary employment while restoring the environment. Phera Mohapi from Environmental Affairs explained the support process, eligibility criteria, and how participants can access resources to maintain planted trees and local parks.

MEC Rockman advised early childhood development centers to protect the newly planted trees, stressing the importance of educating young learners on sustainable agricultural practices. She further emphasized that the recruitment of EPWP participants prioritizes young people, women, and individuals with disabilities to ensure inclusivity in temporary job creation. The initiative also aims to address rising living costs while equipping participants with practical skills for community service and environmental management. Participants were encouraged to actively maintain the trees to ensure long-term benefits for their communities.

The event received positive feedback from local stakeholders, including ECD member Lepile Mahoko, who expressed gratitude for the Department’s efforts in greening the Letsemeng Local Municipality. He noted that the partnership between government and community organizations reinforces the importance of environmental stewardship. The project demonstrates a practical approach to integrating environmental sustainability with social development, offering both educational and economic opportunities for residents. Overall, the tree-planting and EPWP initiatives highlight the Free State government’s commitment to fostering community engagement, environmental protection, and inclusive job creation.