A BULAWAYO environmental organisation has launched a tree-planting initiative in Pumula suburb aimed at curbing a baboon invasion that have left residents counting losses and living in fear.
One Planet Trust said it observed that a significant number of trees were cut down by contractors to pave way for construction of houses.
As a result, baboons have been ransacking homes in search of food, damaging solar panels and other property, leaving children too frightened to play outside.
In an interview, the organisation’s director Simelweyinkosi Masuku said through the planting of fruit and indigenous trees in designated buffer zones, they hoped to restore ecological balance and reduce human-wildlife conflict in the affected communities.
The organisation donated 150 indigenous and citrus trees to residents in Pumula South and Emthunzini, who are facing the baboon invasion menace.
“This is a new location built by Hawkflight Construction Company. As you are aware, in undertaking projects of this scale, many trees are cut down,” Masuku said.
Keep Reading
“Therefore, we will be planting 50 indigenous fruit trees in a bushy area in Pumula South as a way of deterring baboons from straying into residents’ homes on Sunday.”
Masuku added that the organisation also intended to partner the City of Bulawayo to roll out programmes such as the proposed “Visit Bulawayo and Plant a Tree” campaign, a concept document now nearing completion.
She further revealed that the trust is leasing 1,7 hectares of land in North End for the establishment of a tree nursery.
Although the site has a borehole, it lacks a pumping system and fencing.
Masuku appealed to well-wishers and corporate partners to assist with critical infrastructure.
The planned nursery will also serve as a learning centre for Bulawayo children, where learners aged eight and above will be taught how to plant and care for trees while gaining knowledge about environmental conservation and sustainable practices.