Environmental champions recognised at Temvelo Environmental Symposium and Awards

Champions were recognised at the inaugural 2025 Temvelo Environmental Symposium and Awards, held at The Capital Mbombela on Thursday, August 7.

The debut Provincial Environmental Symposium, Expo and Awards took place under the theme, “Investing in a greener, more resilient and inclusive future.” The event brought together industry role-players for panel discussions on topics such as innovations in infrastructure and water management for climate change, as well as unlocking capital for climate and pollution solutions.

Environmental champions were honoured across categories including media, smart agriculture, environment and waste management, climate change, energy, forestry, biodiversity, water and sanitation, tourism, education and conservation. Winners received certificates, trophies, tablets and prize money.

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The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (Dardlea) sees the awards as a call to organisations, government entities, schools, individuals and SMMEs to implement programmes that are environmentally and climate-friendly, contributing to the protection and stewardship of Mpumalanga’s natural resources.

According to the MEC for Dardlea, Khethiwe Moeketsi, the Temvelo Awards not only recognise best practice, but also foster a culture of excellence in sustainability.

“The awards provide a platform for awareness and education to elevate environmental issues and foster a deeper understanding of performance in climate change,” she said.

Moeketsi added that Mpumalanga is proud to pioneer this initiative, demonstrating leadership not only in conservation efforts but also in building a resilient economy, rooted in green principles. “We are not simply beneficiaries of nature’s generosity; we are custodians of its survival. This is why it is only fitting that Mpumalanga is the first host of these prestigious awards,” she said.

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The event was attended by various government officials, including the Ehlanzeni executive mayor, Terra Shabangu.