Nkosikazi Primary School Hosts Successful Tree Planting Day

In a vibrant display of community commitment to environmental sustainability, Nkosikazi Primary School, a key institution in the Bubi Rural District Council (RDC)** area, successfully hosted its annual Tree Planting Day on the first Saturday of December.

The event saw a significant turnout of key stakeholders from the district and beyond, underscoring the collective importance placed on afforestation and environmental management in the region.

The day was graced by numerous influential figures and representatives from various organizations, highlighting the strong partnership between the local government, environmental agencies, and the education sector.

Distinguished attendees included:

-Dr. Patson Mlilo**, CEO of Bubi RDC.

-Cllr S Ndlovu

-CllrM Mpofu

- Representatives from the Forestry Commission.

-Representatives from the DDC's Office

- Officials from the **Environmental Management Agency (EMA)**.

-B. Siziba**, the Acting Provincial Education Director for Matabeleland North Ministry of Education.

-Chief Honondo

-Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda** of the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education.

-Mr. Ndlovu**, a Board Member of the Forestry Commission.

-Director Mukwakwami**, the Guest of Honor's representative.

- Celebrating the Sausage Tree (UMvebe)

The atmosphere was festive and engaging, with the ceremonial planting being the highlight of the day. The **tree of the day** selected for its significant local value was the **Sausage Tree**, locally known as **UMvebe** ($Kigelia africana$).

The choice of UMvebe was particularly significant due to its renowned **medicinal properties**, reinforcing the focus on planting trees that are both environmentally beneficial and valuable to the community.

The stakeholders actively participated in the planting process, each person carefully placing and watering their designated tree. Adding a personal touch to the conservation effort, participants **named their newly planted trees**, symbolizing a commitment to nurturing and tracking their growth.

The successful Tree Planting Day at Nkosikazi Primary School serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial role schools play in environmental education and the positive impact of collaboration between local government, educational bodies, and environmental agencies in creating a greener future for the Bubi District