Ithalomso Waste Management Company celebrated its 10th anniversary by planting 10 trees in different locations in Khayelitsha on Thursday 27 October.
The Site B-based cleaning company planted two trees at Surtan Park in Bhongweni, one at Ntlanganiso High School in Site C and seven at Sobambisana Primary School in Site B.
Ithalomso’s project coordinator Monde Nqulwana said the aim is to encourage cleanliness and nature conservation.
“We want to make Khayelitsha green. Trees are important as they release oxygen for us to breathe. We need to breathe fresh air. Also, we need to change the appearance of our communities,” he said and urged the community to stop illegal dumping.
Explaining why they planted the majority of the trees in schools, he said they plan to protect the buildings from strong winds.
“Also, learners and staff members can sit under the trees during the summer season when it is hot. And we believe that they are safer at the schools than anywhere else,” said Nqulwana.
Sobambisana principal Mvuyisi Damba applauded the company for the great initiative. He said the trees will be helpful to the learners as they will provide natural shade and prevent soil erosion.
He urged the community to look after the environment and stop destroying it.