On Saturday, 28 February 2026, members of the Anglican Women Fellowship (AWF) and Mafumahadi from Mangaung in Bloemfontein gathered for a meaningful environmental awareness visit to the Free State National Botanical Garden. The day offered a space for reflection, learning, and renewed commitment to environmental stewardship during the Lenten season.
A Call to Reflection
Lay Canon Thapelo Mabule called on participants to engage in deep self-introspection during Lent, encouraging Anglicans to reflect on their personal responsibility for environmental conservation. He reminded those in attendance that the environment sustains human life by providing essential resources such as food, water, and natural materials; without it, life would not be possible.
Learning from Nature
Mr and Mrs Ngalo guided participants through insightful lessons on biodiversity. They highlighted the importance of indigenous trees, including the yellowwood — South Africa’s national tree, known for being evergreen, slow-growing, and among the tallest trees in the country’s forests.
Participants also learned about:
- Medicinal and fragrant plants
- Succulents
- Plants of spiritual significance, such as Ziziphus mucronata
The discussion explored alien invasive species, including blue gum and wattle trees, noting their negative impact on water resources while acknowledging their commercial value in construction and furniture manufacturing.
Fossilised trees formed through ancient volcanic activity were also identified, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich geological history.
Protecting Ecosystems
The vital role of wetlands in purifying water and conserving ecosystems was emphasised, alongside the urgent need to protect them.
Climate change was identified as a contributing factor to species extinction, heatwaves, and floods, underscoring the responsibility of individuals and communities to take meaningful action.
Participants further gained insight into:
- The ecological importance of snakes in maintaining biodiversity
- The significance of the grassland biome
- Controlled burning practices are used to preserve grassland ecosystems
Advocacy for Present and Future Generations
Ikaelelo Madikgetla underscored the importance of environmental advocacy across various platforms, including the Church, municipalities, Conferences of the Parties (COP), and other organisations. She emphasised that while the environment cannot speak for itself, humanity must be its voice for the sake of both present and future generations.
A big thank you to the organizer, Mme Mdi, expressed , all participants for a fruitful and enriching day.
By : Eco-Champ Tshegofatso Lekgetho
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