June was a month of meaningful impact as we successfully hosted two Warburgia salutaris workshops in Mpumalanga. In partnership with the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency and SANBI Nelspruit, these hands-on sessions focused on equipping local communities with the knowledge and resources to grow and sustainably manage this valuable medicinal tree.
Through the workshops, SANBI experts taught participants essential skills from planting and caring for young Warburgia trees to sustainable harvesting practices they can apply in 4 to 5 years’ time. The goal is not only to conserve this important species but also to create long-term benefits for the communities involved.
Schoemansdal Workshop – 17 June
The first workshop took place in Schoemansdal on 17 June. It brought together 40 enthusiastic community members, each of whom received their own Warburgia tree to take home and plant.
Bushbuckridge Workshop – 25 June
Hot on the heels of the first event, the second workshop was held in Bushbuckridge. Another 40 community members attended, and this time the group received a total of 60 Warburgia trees to distribute among participants.
Both workshops were held in true community spirit under the shade of trees and from the back of the team’s bakkie! The practical, down-to-earth approach created a relaxed and engaging atmosphere that everyone appreciated.
A huge well done to the entire team for their dedication and hard work in making these workshops such a success. Initiatives like these are helping to plant more than just trees, they’re planting knowledge, sustainability, and hope for the future.
We look forward to following the progress of these new trees and supporting the communities as they nurture them in the months and years ahead.
