Arbor Day: Mongala 1 students learn about ecological citizenship and tree planting

On Friday, December 5, the Democratic Republic of the Congo celebrated National Tree Day in accordance with the 2025–2026 school calendar. To this end, students in the Mongala 1 educational province were educated on the importance of protecting and promoting trees, an essential part of the community’s heritage. Speaking at the Les Bénis School Complex in the Lisala 1 subdivision, Provincial Director Jean-Claude Kilonga noted that the forests of Mongala, located in the heart of the Equatorial Massif, constitute a “living treasure.” They play a crucial role in purifying the air, preserving exceptional biodiversity, and sustaining the local economy, particularly through timber, fruit, and traditional medicinal knowledge. He urged schools, villages, and towns to plant fruit trees and native species, particularly on school grounds, along waterways, and in community spaces.

 “Every tree planted is a step toward a more resilient future. Let’s make Mongala a national model for protecting our natural heritage,” he declared.

Training Tomorrow’s Eco-Conscious Citizens Teaching students to plant, maintain, and protect trees is an investment in building a responsible generation that is aware of climate challenges and capable of preserving natural resources. Planting a tree means instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in the citizens of tomorrow.  Commitment of the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship (MINEDU-NC) On this day, MINEDU-NC reaffirmed its commitment to further integrating environmental education into the education system. The promotion of ecological citizenship and the sustainable management of natural resources aims to educate responsible students who are capable of being agents of change in their communities. This approach aligns with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 on climate action and SDG 4 on quality education. Through this initiative, Mongala 1 reaffirms that school is not merely a place for the transmission of knowledge, but also a space where an ecological consciousness is built that holds the future for the country. It is worth noting that the Democratic Republic of the Congo celebrates National Tree Day every December 5. For the 2025 edition, the chosen theme is:

“One Tree, One Life. Restoring Our Forests for a Sustainable Future.”

National Tree Day is indeed an occasion during which communities are encouraged to plant, protect, and care for trees in order to preserve the environment. This initiative dates back to April 10, 1872, and was launched in Nebraska City, United States, by J. Sterling Morton, then Secretary of Agriculture. Dan de Dieu Kayanda