Standard Bank Eswatini has officially handed over a sponsorship of E75,000 to the Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) in support of the Green Schools and Tree Planting Initiative, a program designed to foster environmental education and sustainable development among Eswatini’s youth.
The sponsorship is part of the Standard Bank Group’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes financing renewable energy projects, supporting climate risk management, and promoting environmental stewardship as a core business practice. It is part of the group’s ambitious goal of planting one million trees across the African continent.
The handover event was held at the Standard Bank Headquarters in Mbabane earlier today.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank, Mlamuli Hlatshwayo, emphasized the critical role of sustainability in the country’s future, highlighting the bank’s commitment to driving economic growth that is inclusive and environmentally responsible.
“Today, we embark on a journey that intertwines education, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development,” Hlatshwayo said. “We believe sustainable economic growth begins with bold investments and strategic partnerships that unlock long-term impact.”
The bank’s sponsorship aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 13 on Climate Action, and SDG 15 on Life on Land.
“The Green Schools and Tree Planting Initiative stands as a testament to the power of education in driving environmental consciousness. By integrating sustainability into the curricula of primary and high schools, we empower the next generation with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility from an early age,” Hlatshwayo said.
Belusile Mhlanga, Head of Monitoring and Coordination at the Eswatini Environment Authority, provided insight into the Green Schools Initiative, which is being piloted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and UNESCO.
Mhlanga explained that the program focuses on embedding climate change education across subjects, promoting experiential learning, and fostering strong community-school partnerships.
“The Green School Initiative is a whole school approach where educational institutions deliver knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that promote socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental sustainability,” said Mhlanga. “We want schools to be centers of excellence where communities can learn about climate action through activities like tree planting, permaculture, and environmental awareness campaigns.”
Executive Director of the Eswatini Environment Authority, Gcina Dladla, lauded Standard Bank’s commitment and urged wider community involvement in environmental protection. He proposed a national challenge for every citizen to plant at least one tree in the next one to two years.
“Plant a tree. My wife can plant a tree. My daughters can plant a tree. How exciting would that be?” Dladla said. “With Standard Bank leading the way, we can all contribute to restoring our ecosystems and securing a greener future.”
Dladla further emphasized the positive social impact of environmental education, noting that schools with active environmental programs tend to see better student performance and engagement.