Bank has increased its commitment towards tree planting
Thato Ramafu
MASERU, Lesotho – Standard Lesotho Bank demonstrated its unwavering commitment to environmental conservation by spearheading the inaugural National Tree Planting Day in Ha Ts’iu, Thaba-Tseka on Wednesday.
The nationwide initiative, that is geared towards mitigating the detrimental impacts of global warming and soil erosion, received a significant boost from the bank, which generously donated 82 000 trees distributed across various districts.
Notably, 10 000 trees were planted specifically in Ha-Tsiu, marking a significant step towards sustainable land conservation in the region.
Standard Lesotho Bank solidified its commitment to environmental sustainability by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the ministry of Environment and Forestry in 2021, pledging an investment of M600 000 to aid the ministry in procuring trees for widespread planting initiatives.
“Renewing its dedication this year, the bank has extended the MOU and increased its investment to a total of M750 000, ensuring continued support for national tree planting efforts until 2026,” a statement from SLB said.
Graced by the presence of His Majesty King Letsie III, alongside the Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, and Minister of Environment and Forestry, Letsema Adonts’i, the initiative drew support from various stakeholders, including World Vision Lesotho and Vodacom Lesotho.
Notably, Vodacom Lesotho supported the bank in tree planting in Ha Ntsi, Maseru, while World Vision supported tree planting in Matelile, Mafeteng district.
Manyathela Kheleli, the Brand and Marketing Manager-Communications and Sponsorship at Standard Lesotho Bank, who spoke speaking on behalf of the bank’s chief executive, Anthony Nicolaisen, emphasised the bank’s commitment to environmental conservation.
“At Standard Lesotho Bank, we say that Lesotho is our home, and we drive her growth. This simply means that the kingdom of Lesotho is our home, and we strive to see it grow. Today, we have taken an active role to address some of the many hurdles faced by Lesotho and the world globally, regarding the safeguarding of the natural environment with tree planting.
“Global warming – resulting in severe droughts, storms, and unusually high temperatures and the resultant damage to crops – underscores the urgent need for arresting the challenges of the ozone layer, that can only be arrested by tree planting. Standard Lesotho Bank is dedicated to understanding and addressing this issue comprehensively. Our involvement in the tree planting initiative spans three years, during which we have demonstrated unwavering support.”
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The National Tree Planting Day activities at Ha Ts’iu, Thaba-Tseka stood as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, with the Bank at the forefront of environmental stewardship, the bank said. Through its sustained commitment, it aims to safeguard Lesotho’s natural resources and foster a sustainable future for generations to come.
In his closing remarks, His Majesty King Letsie III expressed gratitude to all participants for their continued support of the initiative. He urged the community to nurture the planted trees and called upon the Ministry of Forestry and Environment to ensure proper follow-up on the nationwide planting efforts, allowing donors to witness the tangible impact of their contributions.
