Tree Distribution Programme in Olievenhoutbosch

17th April 2010
Sponsored by Audi

"I like trees!"

Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) continues its legacy and leadership in addressing greening and climate change action. On this day of 17th April 2010, 400 trees were distributed to the residents of Olievehoutbosch in Gauteng. These trees were sponsored by Audi, and were ditributed under the Trees for Homes Programme led by Miss. Joanne Rolt.

"Beauty is in the trees!"

The ceremony was conducted and managed by the FTFA Community Foresters; Mr. Solomon Mondlane, Mr. Sipho Mathe and Mr. Sylvester Ngwenya. The residents started coming to school as early as 08h30. They queued outside the school gate waiting to be addressed by the FTFA Community Foresters. Some were already pointing to the trees which were displayed few metres away from them.

"This tree is mine"

The community Foresters were busy bringing closer trees from the far end of the school, to where the residents were queueing. It took them almost 25 minutes to get 400 trees by the entrance gate.

"Mr. Sipho Mathe addressing the residents"

After that, Mr. Mathe (Senior Community Forester), addressed the crowd and introduced his colleagues to the residents. He also mentioned the sponsor, Audi to the residents who made it possible by being involved in the Trees for Homes Programme, and bringing “green” to the low cost income housing Olievenhoutbosch. “We thank Audi for their partnership with FTFA, and their commitment in the greening of Olievenhoutbosch.” He said. He then demonstrated to them on how a tree is planted. Mr. Mathe covered the 12 steps of planting a tree listed on the “How to plant a tree flyer” which are;

1. Dig a square hole, half a metre wide by half a metre deep. Keep the dark top-soil seperated from the lighter soil beneath it. Put the top-soil in the bottom of the hole.

2. Remove the plastic bag and place the tree upright in the hole so that the base of the tree is just below ground level.

3. Next to the tree’s roots, plant an empty 2-litre cold drink bottle with holes made in the bottom (or a pipe) at an angle. The top must stick out of the ground.

4. Mix a small amount of compost or kraal manure with the leftover lighter soil and pack it firmly in the hole.

5. Measure one spade-length in distance around the tree. In this area, remove all grass and weeds. Water the tree and add a 10cm layer of mulch (leaves, stones, straw or strips of newspaper). The mulch must not touch the tree.

6. Fill the bottle or pipe with water once a week. This prevents wastage by sending water straight to the tree’s roots. Once you have watered the tree, put the lid on the bottle to prevent everporation.

7. Place a wooden stake next to the tree and tie it loosely to the tree’s trunk with soft material such as old stocking to help it to grow straight.

8. Fruit trees must be planted in winter.

9. For pests grind onions and garlic, mix with twice the amount of water.

10. Allow mixture to simmer on heat for two hours.

11. Spray the tree with the mixture.

12. Fruit trees must be pruned in winter.

"Trees are good for our environment"

After that, the residents were requested to enter in the school premises in groups of 10, to collect a tree each. They were each given a tree by showing their invitation leaflets which were distributed to them early in the week by the FTFA Community Based Educators (CBE). Without an invitation, one could not be given a tree. Some were also given herbs, but there were those who left without herbs due to the small number of herbs brought to the event. Mr. Sylvester ensured that all invitation leaflets were collected, and he was helped by the three CBEs who were available on the day.

The residents were very happy as they carried their trees in different syles; some on their heads and some on their arms; and some carried one tree in pairs. They possed for pictures showing love and appreciation to the sponsor Audi, and to Food & Trees for Africa.

“We wish they could continue with their good work. We love their make, and we will continue to market them.” Said a woman with joy.

“This tree will be named after my coming child.’ Said one woman who is expecting a child. “I’m glad that there are people who always put others first.” Said one man who was extremely happy.

“I like trees!” said a boy of 11 years who was happy to have come to collect a tree on behalf of his parents.

Overall, the event was a success. The residents came in all forms; old and young; men and women; boys and girls. It was a great tree distribution event. The expectations was now on the following day of 18th April 2010. Mr. Solomon Mondlane ensured that the event was captured on camera.