​Thembisa Shologu
MEC for Agriculture, Parks Tau has called on communities to plant indigenous trees as a practical and symbolic gesture of sustainable environmental management.
"Our commitment to the planting of trees is also a commitment to the mitigation of climate change and to also ensure Sustainable Development Goals are achieved by 2030 and this is not just a symbolic gesture," said Tau.
The MEC was speaking at the launch of Arbor month at the Diepsloot Memorial. The month is celebrated under the theme 'Forest Restoration: a path to recovery and well-being.' 
Tau said the month is an opportune time for government, the private sector, non-governmental, community-based organizations and the public to be involved in the greening of their communities.
"Trees are a valuable resource providing both environmental and economic benefits. By planting a tree, or million trees the country can make a difference," said MEC Tau.
Tau urged people to start community nurseries as part of the green cities. This he said have the potential to create jobs.
"Green cities increase innovation and entrepreneurship within cities where cities can foster the growth of the green technology sector by creating green regional clusters that build on existing industries, services, research and innovation," Tau said. 
Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Infrastructure Services, 
Mpho Moerane said the City of Joburg planted 50 trees on the day. Johannesburg in particular is recognized among the largest human-built forest.
"It is estimated that we have 6 million trees in the City, and this is for this reason that the city is regarded and the largest man-made forest," said Moerane. ​