Konica Minolta and Food & Trees for Africa celebrate 75,000 trees

Konica Minolta South Africa (KMSA) and Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) are proud to celebrate a significant milestone in their long-standing partnership dedicated to environmental sustainability and community improvement. Since its inception in 2008, this collaboration has flourished, planting 75,658 trees across South Africa and sequestering a remarkable 27,918 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

2023 – 2024: a year of continued growth

The most recent planting season, 2023 to 2024, saw an impressive 6,279 trees planted in 62 communities as well as FTFA’s flagship reforestation project in the Kologha Mountains in the Eastern Cape. The continued greening demonstrates the commitment of both organizations to improving green spaces and promoting ecological management. Each tree planted not only contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions but also to the enrichment of local environments and the well-being of community members.

A legacy of impact and inspiration

The partnership highlights the importance of long-term commitments to environmental projects, which generate benefits for generations to come. With nearly two decades of dedicated service through Arbor Days, Mandela Days and other important initiatives, KMSA and FTFA have been instrumental in the transformation of more than 1,413 communities. Their efforts have brought greenery to schools, hospitals, welfare agencies and community gardens, making a lasting impact on the environment and the lives of countless people.

One of the tree recipients in recent years, Reunion Primary School in Durban, illustrates the long-term impact of environmental greening on disadvantaged communities.

“Our Grade 6 and 7 students who helped plant these trees today will be able to visit them in years to come, knowing that they helped create community resources like clean air, shade and food,” said Ms. Nicole Liddle, educator. at school. A combination of apricot, nectarine, peach, pear and plum trees were planted, alongside native species such as the River Karee (Lance SearsiaA).

Milestones and achievements

One of the milestones celebrated was the planting of the 50,001st tree in 2020. Many of these trees were planted in honor of Madiba’s legacy and include places such as Robben Island where he was imprisoned, and his birthplace in Mvezo, Eastern Cape.

This milestone was not just a number but a symbol of the thousands of lives impacted and the many ecosystems improved through diligent and continued efforts. Each tree is a beacon of hope, growth and resilience, helping to combat climate change and fostering a greener, healthier planet.

Voice of Partnership

“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with Konica Minolta South Africa over the last 16 years. Our collaboration is a powerful example of how corporate responsibility and community engagement can lead to substantial environmental change,” said Robyn Hills, Program Manager at Food & Trees for Africa. “The trees we have planted are a legacy of growth, both for our natural world and for the communities we support. »

Konica Minolta South Africa CEO Marc Pillay added: “Our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa has been one of the cornerstones of our corporate social responsibility initiatives. We are committed to sustainability and having a positive impact on the environment. Seeing tangible benefits in the communities we have supported over the years is incredibly rewarding. We look forward to continuing this journey and achieving even greater milestones in the future. »