22 October 2007
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) invites you to a tree planting
event as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations. The IEC is aware of its
joint responsibility with all other organisations and corporations both
nationally and globally to care for the environment.
The planting of "democracy trees" at the Makgatho Primary School in
Atteridgeville on 25 October is the first phase in a five year campaign that
will oversee the planting of over 300 000 trees at voting stations countrywide.
The project is done in partnership with Food and Trees for Africa (FTFA), the
Department of Education and the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.
"The IEC has a particular interest in the availability of trees since
without trees there will be no ballot papers and without ballot papers no
voting. The reality of voting in South Africa's young democracy is such that it
is inevitable that we will use printed ballot papers. To this end, the IEC is
taking active steps to ensure that our heritage is nurtured and preserved and
that the organisation plays a role in sustaining our environment which is also
the heritage of future voters," said the Chairperson of the IEC, Dr Brigalia
Bam.
The Chief Executive Officer of FTFA and co-winner of the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), Sasakawa Climate Change Award, Jeunesse Park
adds, "We commend the IEC for their commitment to offer trees to disadvantaged
communities across the country. These trees provide many social and
environmental benefits and can also contribute to carbon offset, thus
addressing the crucial issue of climate change."
The campaign is aimed at:
* highlighting the vital role of trees in our lives by planting democracy
trees where possible at each of our 19 000 voting stations
* highlighting the important role that forests play in our economy and for our
continued survival
* highlighting the importance of preserving our environment in the face of
global warming
* encourage IEC and electoral (Election Day) staff to participate in ongoing
tree planting and greening activities
* creating opportunities for corporate South Africa to partner with the IEC in
sustaining our environment and heritage.
Event details:
Date: Thursday, 25 October 2007
Time: 12h00
Venue: Makgatho Primary School, corner Sakweng and Mofokeng Streets,
Atteridgeville, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
For media queries:
Lydia Young
Cell: 082 650 8652
Issued by: Independent Electoral Commission
22 October 2007
