Bino Teboho Makhalanyane

The Anglican Student Federation ( ASF) Western Cape Region Annual Conference was held from 15-17 May 2026 at St Francis Anglican Church in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, under the Theme “ Repositioning with Integrity”, based on Psalm 25:21. The conference brought together students, clergy and visitors for a spirit-filled weekend of fellowship, learning, worship, leadership and revival.The second day began with a morning prayer session, setting a reflective tone for the day. This was followed by an engaging session facilitated by Bino Makhalanyane from the Green Anglicans Movement. The session was highly interactive, incorporating music, drama, and participatory awareness activities.Students explored how communities in the Western Cape are affected by climate-related disasters, including floods, droughts, and wildfires. Through dramatisation, they illustrated how these disasters develop, the role of human activities in intensifying them, and their impact on livelihoods. They also reflected on the messages they can share within their communities to promote resilience and preparedness.The session was both educational and enjoyable, encouraging active participation and critical thinking. Students proposed practical actions that communities can begin implementing, including planting trees to create cooler urban environments, preventing litter that blocks drainage systems, educating communities on fire safety during dry, windy seasons, displaying emergency contact numbers for disasters on church notice boards, and avoiding construction in wetlands.The programme continued with a session by United in Crisis and Hope Africa, followed by the AGM’s conclusion, during which new REC members were elected. Revd. Canon Maci later unpacked the conference theme, and the evening included an Exam Prayer Service led by Revd. Canon Adrian Gordon, fraternal greetings to visiting organisations, and a vibrant time of praise, worship, and revival.The final day began with an Eucharist Service led by Revd. Lubabalo Qosi, during which the new REC members were commissioned and prayed for. The conference closed with joy and gratitude, ending in a short photo session that captured the unity and spirit of the gathering. By :Emihle Sobekwa

The North West Region gathered at St Augustine of Hippo, Potchefstroom, from 15–17 May 2026 for its Annual Regional Conference. The two-night conference was filled with spirit revival, powerful praise and worship, fellowship, laughter, and memories that the members of the region will cherish for years to come. With all the excitement, the members of the North West Region remained intentional about caring for creation. In the spirit of Green Anglican, no Styrofoam was used throughout the conference, and reusable water bottles were used instead. Through these simple actions, the region showed that environmental stewardship can be practiced even while enjoying a weekend of worship, learning, and fun. A big thanks to Mother Nature for such a wonderful weekend. The conference programme also included a Green Hike sponsored by Green Anglican. The 3.3km trail took members through beautiful green surroundings, with small streams flowing along the way. The hike offered a refreshing break from the conference programme and a chance to reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. As members walked the trail, they were able to appreciate the beauty of the environment while enjoying fellowship with one another. It was a simple but powerful reminder that caring for creation begins with learning to appreciate it. The experience perfectly complemented the conference’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable living. The conference also had a special moment where we planted a tree at St Augustine of Hippo, because every tree planted carries hope for life and a greener future. Archdeacon Sebowane was with us, guiding and blessing the tree. We prayed over it, hoping it would grow strong and stand as a living reminder of our commitment as the North West Region to caring for the environment. It was more than just a programme item; it was a meaningful reminder that caring for creation is part of our faith and responsibility. ARTICLE COMPILED BY T. MARAKA – (OUTGOING REGIONAL GET)  

On 11 May 2026, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) hosted a significant environmental engagement focused on the national One Billion Trees Programme. The event brought together government leaders, environmental organisations, faith-based representatives, and climate activists committed to strengthening South Africa’s environmental future. Among the invited attendees were Boipelo Mojapelo, Tumisho Mohlahlane, Rev Johanna Mphaga, Canon Molly of Green Anglican, alongside representatives from Climate YES Organisation. The keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts, who officially launched the ambitious One Billion Trees target. In her address, she highlighted the importance of collective action and private sector support in achieving the country’s environmental goals. “This year alone we aim to plant 10 million trees on Heritage Day at no cost to government, and I wish to thank all our donors for the generosity and commitment of putting the country and the environment first and I note that some of them are here with us in this session,” said Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts while delivering the keynote address. The MEC of Gauteng, Botha, also delivered a powerful message of support, emphasising the cultural and historical significance of trees across Africa. “In South Africa and in Africa, trees are not just there to combat climate change. Trees are not just there to prevent water from running off and soil erosion. Trees are not just there to provide oxygen. Trees are our heritage,” said MEC Botha. As part of the programme’s commitment to community-driven environmental action, the DFFE donated 100 trees to Green Anglican and Climate YES Organisation. The donation symbolises a shared commitment to sustainability, environmental education, climate resilience, and community participation in restoring South Africa’s natural environment. The event served as a reminder that environmental stewardship requires partnerships between government, civil society, faith-based organisations, and local communities. Through initiatives such as the One Billion Trees Programme, South Africa continues to take meaningful steps toward combating climate change while preserving its environmental heritage for future generations. By: Boipelo Mojapelo

On Sunday, 3 May, the Eco-Champions:  Dr Shago (GFS South African President), Mogorosi (Diocesan Green Anglicans Coordinator), Odireleng (Climate YES member), and Hloni (Youth member), travelled to the Church of the Good Shepherd in the vibrant small town of Koffiefontein to conduct awareness-raising and educational advocacy on restoring God’s creation to its original state, as described in Genesis 1:1–31. The programme was presented to members of the St Francis Servers Guild in the Southwest Archdeaconry and focused on encouraging environmental responsibility within communities of faith. The Eco-Champions highlighted the important role Christians have in caring for creation and protecting the environment for future generations. The visit was centred on three key actions: tree planting, keeping the environment clean, and promoting the benefits of vegetable gardening. Participants were reminded that, as people of faith, they are called to be good stewards of God’s creation. Waste reduction and the conservation of natural resources were emphasised as essential practices for sustainable development and community well-being. As part of the outreach, the Eco-Champions donated trees to be planted at three local churches as a symbol of growth, restoration, and environmental care. To support ongoing clean-up initiatives, each church also received fifty refuse bags for litter collection within its community. In addition, various types of vegetable seeds were distributed to encourage food security and promote the value of fresh, home-grown produce. The initiative aimed to inspire families and churches to establish vegetable gardens that can contribute to healthier living and self-sustainability We advocate Environmental Restoration 202Fix. By: Mogorosi Molisapoli ( Green Anglicans Diocesan Coordinator)

On Saturday, 25 April 2026, members of the Girls’ and Boys’ Friendly Society (GBFS) from the dioceses of Cape Town, False Bay, and Saldanha Bay gathered for the GBFS Eco-Champs Programme at Edith Stephens Nature Reserve in Philippi. The gathering brought together young people from across the dioceses for a day of environmental learning, reflection, and fellowship. For many participants, the programme was both educational and inspiring. As a newcomer to the Green Anglicans Programme, one participant (Immanuel Mlata) described the experience as wonderful and eye-opening. The sessions provided valuable insights into different plant and animal species and the many ecosystems found around the world. Through these lessons, participants gained a deeper understanding of the importance of nature and its vital role in sustaining life. The programme also highlighted the traditional uses of indigenous plants by previous generations. Participants learned how certain plants were highly valued and respected by their great-grandparents because they provided medicine, food, and other important benefits to communities. These discussions helped connect environmental care with cultural heritage and traditional wisdom. In addition, the Eco-Champs Programme encouraged responsible environmental stewardship. Young people were taught practical ways to care for and manage the environment, including keeping their surroundings clean, protecting natural resources, and promoting sustainable living within their communities. A strong message throughout the programme was the importance of respecting all living creatures. Participants were reminded that animals are also part of God’s creation and should therefore be treated with kindness and compassion. The programme encouraged young people not to harm, torture, or unnecessarily kill animals, but instead to value and protect them. A big thank you goes to The Claremont Rotary Club for making the day possible.    PREPARED BY: Eco-Champ IMMANUEL MLATA

On Easter Sunday 2026, the newly enthroned Bishop of the Diocese of Johannesburg, the Rt. Revd Dr Sepadi Moruthane visited Manche Masemola Anglican Church, Protea Glen, and he marked the occasion by planting a Syzygium tree within the church grounds. From the olden days, a bishop planting a tree carries meaning. It is said to reflect growth and stewardship. This act shows care for creation and responsibility toward future generations. Planting a tree on Easter Sunday gives this greater meaning as Easter represents Jesus Christ’s victory over death, his resurrection and new life. The tree will then become a living reminder of that message. The Syzygium tree itself adds further significance. Many Syzygium species are evergreen, representing stability and longevity. They can produce fruit and offer shade. This reflects a church that offers support, and nourishment to its people. The tree may eventually develop into a common area where the people of the church and community gather to relax and interact. This simple act tells a bigger message. It is about planting seeds that will live beyond this moment. It is about building a church that grows not only in numbers but also in influence and presence within the community. Zimbili Gama from the Server’s Guild and Sunday School shared her thoughts on why the Bishop planted a tree at the church. “I think it’s because he was leaving a memory and an inspiration of the plantation when he said, ‘plant a tree for yourself because prices are going up and share it with your neighbour’. Well, for me, it was like he was leaving a big blessing, making a memory, and encouraging us to make a big difference in our communities and to share what we have. Like plants, food and prayer, well, that’s what I think about the tree”  Owethu Kebeni from the St Agnes Guild and Sunday School says if this tree could speak, it would tell us that “ngizokhula, be wise and prosper”.  Gomolemo Hlongwane from the Server’s Guild and Youth also shared what it meant to him witnessing the bishop planting a tree at our church as well as how he sees this tree reflecting the future of the church and community. “To me, witnessing such an event not only reminded me to go back and check whether I’m still rooted in God as the tree’s roots remain, but it also meant the beginning of a new chapter and the growth of the church not only in members but in a shaped purpose. The tree reflects promise, for it will remain there and grow to give us shade on sunny days, just like God will remain with us in the storms. Yes, it won’t grow overnight, and neither will the healing, and that’s what reminds us of God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us” By Revd. Theo