MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, accompanied by Acting HOD Mr. Relebohile Mofokane, along with senior management and staff from DEDECT and its agencies, NWDC, NWGB, and NWPTB, celebrated Arbor and Heritage Day with the community of Tlakgameng today at the local sports ground. The event aimed to promote the conservation of natural resources and the celebration of South Africa’s diverse “rainbow nation,” encouraging unity among South Africans despite differences in history, race, culture, and beliefs.
The celebration commenced with the donation and planting of indigenous and fruit trees at the Tlakgameng Tribal Office, Seitsang Primary, Kegakilwe Primary, and Molale Day Care Centre. MEC Lenkopane was joined by Kgosi Kegakilwe, Ward Councillor Lehela Theko, and other community leaders for this tree-planting initiative, which is part of DEDECT’s ongoing contribution to the national goal of planting 10 million trees over five years. Launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2021, the campaign seeks to promote environmental sustainability and protection while delivering socioeconomic benefits to the people of South Africa.
The event also featured a celebration of local cultures, including those of the Batswana, Herero, and Basotho, along with participation from traditional healers and faith-based organizations. The youth were encouraged to know their identity, preserve their heritage, and embrace the diversity of South Africa’s cultures. The day was further enriched with cultural music and dances from local traditional groups, and the enjoyment of African cuisine.
In line with this year’s Heritage Day theme, “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom,” MEC Lenkopane paid tribute to the many struggle stalwarts who sacrificed for the country’s freedom, remembering figures like Mama Ruth Segomotsi Mompati and Mr. Clement Bohitile Baabua who comes from Tlakgameng.
MEC also highlighted the rich history of the North West Province, positioning it as an ideal destination for heritage tourism. She pointed to significant heritage sites such as the Taung Skull Fossil Site, the Vredefort Dome, Modimong, Dinkgwaneng and Thomeng, encouraging the community to explore these sites and take responsibility for their preservation for future generations. Many of these heritage sites are located within the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District.
MEC Lekopane amongst other things urged community members, and calling for corporate organizations, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, and educational institutions, to actively participate in the tree-planting programme. Trees play a vital role in building sustainable and healthy communities, offering benefits such as nutritious food, medicinal resources, and contributing to human well-being in less obvious ways, such as by providing clean water and fresh air.