SLB pledges M750k for tree planting

‘Mantšali Phakoana

Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) solidified its commitment to environmental sustainability by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the ministry of environment and forestry, pledging an investment of M750,000 towards tree planting.

In 2021, the bank injected M600, 000 to the ministry for procurement of trees to be planted across the country.

“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,” SLB said in a statement.

As a way of demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the environmental conservation, the bank donated 82 000 trees for distribution across the 10 districts.

The donation was made during the inaugural National Tree Planting Day held at Ha Tšiu in Thaba-Tseka district, marking a significant step towards sustainable land conservation in the region.

According to a statement released by SLB, the nationwide initiative is geared towards mitigating the detrimental impacts of global warming and soil erosion.

The tree planting initiative was graced by the presence of King Letsie III, alongside prime minister Sam Matekane, and minister of environment and forestry, Letsema Adontši, and other stakeholders that included World Vision Lesotho and Vodacom Lesotho.

Notably, Vodacom Lesotho supported the bank in tree planting at Ha Ntši in Maseru, while World Vision supported the tree planting initiative in Matelile, Mafeteng.

Speaking on behalf of the SLB chief executive, brand and marketing manager – communications and sponsorship, Manyathela Kheleli emphasized the bank’s commitment to environmental conservation.

“At Standard Lesotho Bank, we say 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,” Kheleli said.

He noted that Standard Lesotho Bank is dedicated and understands the need to address such issues comprehensively.

“Our involvement in the tree planting initiative spans three years, during which we have demonstrated unwavering support,” he added.

The bank stated in a statement that the National Tree Planting Day at Ha Tšiu in Thaba-Tseka stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, with the bank at the forefront of environmental stewardship.

Through their sustained commitment, they aim to safeguard Lesotho’s natural resources and foster a sustainable future for generations to come, SLB noted.

In his closing remarks, King Letsie III expressed gratitude to all participants for their continued support of the initiative.

The King 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.