A Shared Commitment to a Greener Future

Local Communities, environmental organisations, schools, and government leaders gathered at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden this week for the launch of South Africa’s ambitious One Billion Trees Programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at restoring the environment and encouraging ordinary South Africans to take part in creating a more sustainable future.

Among the organisations participating in the launch was JNF-SA, whose long history of forestry and environmental work made it a natural partner in the campaign. The initiative’s immediate focus will be to plant ten million trees on 24 September 2026, with the broader vision of planting one billion trees across South Africa over time.

JNF-SA used the opportunity to highlight the impact of the JNF Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre in Mamelodi, where environmental education and tree-planting projects continue to reach local communities. Through the centre, more than 35,000 trees have already been planted, while over 150,000 learners have participated in environmental education programmes.

Speaking at the event, JNF-SA Executive Board Member and Head of Environmental Studies Benji Shulman reflected on the ability of environmental initiatives to unite people across different backgrounds.

“A tree does not care what religion you are to use its shade, what race you are to use its seeds, or what nationality you are to eat its fruit.”

JNF-SA President Isla Feldman noted that forestry has been central to JNF’s work for 125 years and that the organisation has played a role in planting more than 250 million trees in Israel. She encouraged members of the Jewish community to support the campaign by planting trees in schools, shuls, and homes.

The event carried a strong message of partnership and shared responsibility, with participants united around the understanding that protecting the environment is not only about planting trees, but also about investing in healthier and more resilient communities for future generations.

Benji Shulman (commitee member), Isla Feldman (president) and Bev Schneider (national director) welcomed by officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.