The Department with its stakeholders recently hosted an Environmental Summit at the Gert Sibande District Municipality, under the Theme: “Go Green for a Sustainable Environment”. MEC VR Shongwe was the main speaker, and he used the opportunity to commend the idea behind the Summit, adding that such gatherings should not be a “talkshops”. He encouraged that moving forward, individuals from community groups and NGOs dealing with issues of environment should be assisted by officials from the Department at all times.
MEC Shongwe called for follow-up meetings and further engagements, but also encouraged the possibility of training on environmental issues and waste management. Among others, participating organizations at the summit reiterated the importance of their partnerships with i.e. Provincial and Local Government and other relevant stakeholders. These organizations also declared their willingness to assist emerging initiatives and some are also keen to expand their current areas of operation. A strong commitment was received from Siyabuddy Buy Back Centre that will advise and support 1 x Waste project
per district.