Maseru- on Friday 27th Revenue Service Lesotho (RSL), Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), Ministry of Forestry joined forces to plant trees at Makoanyane Barracks promoting environmental conversation and contributing to climate change.
Speaking on Behalf of RSL, Pheello Majara said the initiative started in 2023 when RSL celebrated twenty-years with initial 5000 trees planted at the Ratjomose Barracks and this week one notable tree-planting takes place and RSL has donated 10000 trees to further improve the local ecosystem.
He highlighted that LDF has a long History of tree-planting and it has contributed to afforestation efforts country wide, adding that this is part of the RSL community responsibility.
“RSL has committed to plant 20,000 trees annually, recently we have planted 4000 trees in Berea and have donates additional 10000 to the Lesotho Defence Force,” he said
He indicated that’s the trees were bought form local farmers further supporting agricultural community while also contributing to environmental sustainability.
Delivering his speech, Senior District Forestry Office Moipatlile Lejaha said tree planting is part of broader environmental goals to combat issues of deforestation and climate change.
“Tree planting enhances air quality, combats soil erosion, and helps regulate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide this contributing to both local and global environment health,” he said
He mentioned that types of trees planted are piner and blue-gum trees due to; they grow faster and are easily adaptable, adding that pine thrives in all of climate range while blue gum were chosen by their quick establishment.
Speaking on behalf of the Lesotho Defence Force, Staff Officer II Barracks Support Officer Unit , Major Lethala Mathatela emphasized that LDF areas should remain green , with trees and flowers to maintain cleanliness and a health environment. Additional said trees play an important role in addressing irregular rainfall and temperature changes caused by climate change.
Lethala acknowledged that there were challenges causes by certain invasive trees that have disrupted land and building however he reassured that the LDF is collaborating with the ministry of Forestry to address this issues.
He said already they are replacing problematic trees with species that are better suited for the environment.
