MEC speaks about environment and economy at business event in Secunda
Discussions highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in protecting the environment and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
The Mpumalanga government has called for stronger public-private collaboration to tackle environmental challenges while unlocking economic opportunities through recycling and the circular economy.
MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs Khethiwe Moeketsi made the call during an Environmental and Sustainable Economy Business Breakfast held at Lake Umuzi Hotel in Secunda on September 11.
Moeketsi said the gathering allowed government to engage directly with businesses and civil society organisations to strengthen partnerships to create opportunities in the circular economy.
She said government could not address the province’s environmental challenges alone and urged the private sector to play a greater role in finding sustainable solutions.
Presentations during the breakfast focused on the Temvelo Flagship Programme and the Material Recovery Facility (MRF), with discussions centred on waste management, recycling, and ways to turn waste into economic opportunities for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
The discussions highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in protecting the environment and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Sasol emphasised the need for behavioural change, particularly among young people, through environmental education and initiatives such as tree planting and clean-up campaigns.
The company also announced its intention to partner with the department for the 2026 instalment of the Temvelo Awards and Symposium.
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Govan Mbeki Municipality Executive Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma also called on communities, businesses and other stakeholders to strengthen recycling initiatives and work together to reduce the amount of waste being disposed of at landfill sites.
Zuma said stronger partnerships with businesses, recycling organisations, communities and other stakeholders were needed to expand recycling initiatives across the municipal area.
“The municipality believes that promoting recycling can contribute not only towards cleaner communities and the protection of landfill capacity, but also towards job creation, SMME development and new economic opportunities.
The municipality remains committed to working with communities, government departments, businesses and other stakeholders to promote responsible waste management, recycling and sustainable development for present and future generations,” said Zuma.
