Debswana and Absa Botswana Launch Tree Planting Initiative, Plant 11,000 Trees

Gaborone, Botswana – Debswana Diamond Company, in partnership with Absa Bank Botswana, has launched a significant tree planting campaign across its mining areas. This initiative aims to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable development by planting a total of 11,000 trees jointly donated by the two companies.

The tree-planting initiative was launched in both the Boteti and Jwaneng areas as part of Debswana’s 55th anniversary commemoration. This project reflects Debswana's commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and will support global reforestation, restore ecosystems, and combat climate change.

Debswana Managing Director Andrew Motsomi emphasized the company's dedication to environmental stewardship, stating, "At Debswana, we recognize our responsibility to the environment and are committed to conducting our business in a way that minimizes any negative impact from diamond mining. Sustainable community projects are at the heart of our mission, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our operations contribute positively to the well-being of our communities and the preservation of our planet."

Absa Bank's Acting Managing Director Tebogo Giddie highlighted climate action as a central focus of their sustainability strategy. Giddie applauded both the Absa and Debswana teams for their proactive approach to addressing climate change, urging recipients to plant the trees with care and pride, contributing to a greener, healthier world and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Additionally, the Technology and Technical Services Team at Debswana recently participated in a tree planting event in Mmathubudukwane as part of an employee volunteerism initiative. They planted 150 trees in the Mmathubudukwane Reclamation Park to combat climate change and create potential livelihoods for the local community.

This noble initiative underscores the importance of collaborative action in promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. It aligns with global reforestation efforts, such as the pledge made by world leaders at the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference to end and reverse deforestation by 2030. These efforts are crucial, as deforestation continues to drive climate change and other environmental crises.