Thanda in Mtwalume named finalist for eco community award
The organisation is one of just three finalists nationally.
Mtwalume-based non-profit Thanda has been named a finalist for an eco-community award at the 2026 Eco-Logic Awards, a national awards programme celebrating environmental leadership and initiatives that make a positive contribution to people and the planet.
Now in its 15th year, the awards recognise organisations, communities and individuals across South Africa that are developing practical solutions to environmental and social challenges.
Thanda is one of just three finalists in the Eco-Community category, alongside Thulamela Makhado Adopt A River and Wessa.
Based in rural Mtwalume, Thanda works alongside local people to improve food security, create income-generating opportunities and support children and families.
Within its food security and economic development pillar, the NPO’s programmes include Nisela organic farming and household gardening, helping local farmers and households grow nutritious food for their families, generate income and reduce household food insecurity.
Under its early childhood development pillar, Thanda has also built an Eco-ECD, an innovative approach that places sustainable design and environmental leadership at the heart of an ECD centre, embedding sustainability into what and how young children learn.
This centre, located near Thanda’s Community Centre, is designed to work with natural processes such as water, energy, food and waste, while supporting children’s learning, wellbeing and development.
“We’re incredibly proud of the families, team and partners who make this work possible,” says Angela Larkan, Thanda’s Executive Director.
“Being recognised alongside organisations doing such important environmental and community work across South Africa is a real honour. It reflects what can be achieved when communities are at the heart of creating solutions that work for them.”
The award recognises communities or schools that have acted collectively and effectively to protect, preserve or restore biodiversity, ecosystems or natural resources.
Winners will be announced at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town on Monday, October 5.
Larkan adds: “Whatever the outcome, we’re grateful to the Eco-Logic Awards for recognising the power of community-led change.”
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