The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has unveiled a lofty campaign to plant 10 million trees on Heritage Day. On Tuesday, Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts revealed the campaign, which ties in with the One Billion Trees Programme.

As the name suggests, the goal is to plant one billion trees in South Africa in the coming years. In support of this programme, Swarts called on South Africans nationwide to plant 10 million trees on Heritage Day (24 September 2026).

'Trees will be planted in safe spaces across all nine provinces, including schools, clinics, hospitals, colleges, police stations, churches, parks and residential areas,' explained Swarts. 'We also encourage households to plant trees in their own yards. Every tree planted will contribute towards a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient South Africa.'

Last year's Heritage Day celebrations saw a staggering 1.3 million trees planted in a single day, thanks to the efforts made by the citizens of South Africa. Since then, the country has been heavily impacted by the effects of climate change.

The effects of climate change include devastating wildfires, destructive storms, and massive flooding among other environmental challenges. Swarts urges South Africans from all backgrounds to do their part in building a sustainable, healthier future for generations to come.

'Whether you plant a tree in your yard, donate a tree through our departmental digital pledge platform, mobilise your workplace or encourage your community to participate, you are contributing to a lasting legacy,' she said.

Bernice Swarts is a seasoned politician with a strong background in environmental affairs. She has been a strong advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable development.

As Deputy Minister of the DFFE, Swarts plays a crucial role in implementing environmental policies. Her experience and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the country's environmental agenda.

The One Billion Trees Programme is a comprehensive initiative aimed at restoring the country's degraded forests and wetlands. It aims to promote sustainable land-use practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The programme will also support the development of sustainable forest products, create jobs, and enhance the resilience of local communities. The massive tree-planting campaign is a significant step towards achieving these objectives.

But this is not the first time South Africans have come together to tackle the effects of climate change. Last year, the country experienced one of its worst droughts in recent history.

In response, South Africans rallied together to plant trees and implement innovative agricultural practices. Although the drought had devastating effects on the country's food security, the collective efforts of its citizens demonstrated the country's resilience in the face of adversity.

The massive tree-planting campaign is a testament to South Africans' commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

'Trees will be planted in safe spaces across all nine provinces, including schools, clinics, hospitals, colleges, police stations, churches, parks and residential areas.'

The campaign will also promote public awareness of the importance of environmental conservation. It will also educate South Africans on the benefits of tree-planting and sustainable land-use practices.

In the words of Swarts, 'Every tree planted will contribute towards a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient South Africa.'

The massive tree-planting campaign is an opportunity for South Africans to come together and make a positive impact on their environment. Whether you're a business owner, an educator, a community leader, or an individual, you can contribute to this worthy cause.

Key Facts:

• 10 million trees to be planted on Heritage Day (24 September 2026) • One Billion Trees Programme aims to plant one billion trees in South Africa in the coming years • Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts has called on South Africans nationwide to participate in the tree-planting campaign • Trees will be planted in safe spaces across all nine provinces • Every tree planted will contribute towards a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient South Africa • South Africans are encouraged to plant trees in their own yards • The tree-planting campaign is part of the One Billion Trees Programme