In celebration of Arbor Month 2025, Exxaro Belfast Coal partnered with Belfast Rusoord Old Age Home to plant 20 fruit trees, continuing a greening initiative that began last year. The project also tracked progress at Phumlani Agri Village, reinforcing Exxaro’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable community development.
The home, which accommodates 70 elderly residents, welcomed the initiative warmly. Pioneer influencers were actively involved in the planting process, helping to bring energy, visibility, and a sense of shared purpose to the event.
According to Sizwe Mabilisa, Environmental Practitioner at Exxaro, the initiative was designed to promote active ageing while giving back to the environment—especially vital in the Emakhazeni community, where mining activity has long impacted the natural ecosystem. He emphasised that planting trees is part of the remedy: a way to restore balance when resources are extracted from the earth.
Community Development Specialist Mmathebe Molaotse added that the initiative aligns with Exxaro’s purpose to Power Better Lives in Africa and Beyond. She explained that sustainable growth depends on meaningful investment in communities, and that environmental stewardship must be inclusive—bringing people along in the journey.
The impact of the project is already being felt. Rusoord Manager, Mienjie Venter, shared that the trees have encouraged residents to spend more time outdoors, engage in joint activities, and build stronger social bonds—fostering a sense of family among the elders.
With 20 more trees planted this year, the initiative continues to grow—nurturing both the land and the lives of those who call it home.
