The City of Johannesburg has announced a major tree-planting drive that will see 6 000 new indigenous trees take root across the city this November.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to expand and protect Joburg’s famous tree canopy – a vital urban asset that supports carbon absorption, temperature regulation, stormwater management, and biodiversity.
The large-scale greening campaign is being led by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) in partnership with the Fourways Improvement District, as part of the Presidential One Million Trees Programme.
According to the City of Joburg, the Programme aims to “restore South Africa’s natural environment, improve air quality, and create greener, more liveable urban spaces.”
On Tuesday morning, 11 November, residents, volunteers, schools, faith-based organisations, business representatives, and dignitaries joined hands to plant 3 000 indigenous Celtis Africana trees (more commonly known as the White Stinkwood).
The trees were planted in the north of Johannesburg, between Fourways and Diepsloot – all within a single hour.
Next week on the 18th of November, another 3 000 trees will be planted in Soweto, “further reinforcing the City’s commitment to equitable greening across all regions of Johannesburg.”
A proudly-local African tree
Celtis Africana, or White Stinkwoods, are a hardy, fast-growing, deciduous tree that are native to parts of Africa.
Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Cllr Sello Dada Morero, described the campaign as a symbol of unity and renewal.
“This campaign is about reclaiming our beautiful city through the power of greening,” said Morero.
“As we plant 3 000 trees today – and another 3 000 in Soweto next week – we are planting a legacy of pride, partnership, and renewal.”
“I call on every resident to become a champion of change: plant trees in your homes, protect the ones we plant together, and join us in restoring Johannesburg to its rightful place as a clean, green, and thriving city.”
Bridging the divide between communities
According to the City, the campaign is about more than beautification. The trees are being planted strategically to rejuvenate neglected corridors, bridge the “green divide” between suburbs and townships, and reclaim public spaces with low-maintenance, water-wise landscapes.
“Preparing 3 000 holes, providing spades, compost, and a detailed watering plan reflects the scale of coordination required for this kind of city-wide activation,” added JCPZ Managing Director Thanduxolo Mendrew.
“It demonstrates what is possible when our teams, partners, and residents come together for a shared environmental cause.”
