What is ZDDT doing for Bulawayo's communities?

This came to light at a tree after-care exercise in W20 (Cllr E Rafamoyo: Nkulumane 12), where the community set out to revive trees,donated by the Trust, from their winter slumber.

ZDDT partnered with local communities and planted the trees, with buy-in from the local leadership and the Local Authority.

The Trust then initiated a multi-pronged information dissemination programme on the importance of protecting our environment. Opinion leadersin the communities such as Councillors, Community Action Teams and other stakeholders, are being targeted and it is these people who are now imparting the knowledge which they get from ZDDT, to their fellow residents,resulting in a better informed society.

ZDDT’s Field Correspondent, Ntando Sibanda (NS), had a chat with resident Thenjiwe Msimanga (TM) during the course of the exercise, and one of the volunteers, Sibusisiwe Sibanda (SS).

NS: What do you think is the most valuable aspect of this and other ZDDT projects?

TM:  ZDDT initiates programmes that promote unity, oneness and other valuable social and cultural values. For instance, this tree planting programme shows respect for nature and rubs in the fact that trees are life.

NS: What do you think about this project and what do you think should be done to safeguard these trees?

SS: This is a very good project and we, as a community, are very happy that we are part of it. People should be taught about the negative effects of cutting down trees, burning things and dumping litter. I believe that if people are taught and are made to understand the motive behind these projects, they will safeguard their environment and resources jealously.