14 February 2024
In an effort to address environmental concerns while providing employment opportunities, the Department of Fisheries Forestry and Environment (DFFE) has partnered with the Sedibeng District Municipality to implement the Clean and Green Project and remove alien plants under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
The Clean and Green Project focuses on eradicating illegal dumps and promoting a healthier environment, while the removal of alien plants aims to address water consumption concerns by eliminating water-intensive trees. Overall, the project will improve environmental conditions in certain areas within the district, while also creating job opportunities, skills development, and financial support to participants.
The Sedibeng District Municipality, has further engaged Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment as well as local companies to contribute tools and resources towards the success of the project. This led to various items such as heavy-duty plastic bags, hand gloves, nose bags, safety gear, and other essential equipment being pledged.
Over the 2023/2024 financial year, Sedibeng has created 806 working opportunities in both the Clean and Green Project and the removal of alien plants. Participants are recruited through a rigorous process across all local municipalities, including Emfuleni, Midvaal, and Lesedi. They are then stationed at different areas within municipal buildings, schools, and other public spaces to undertake tasks related to cleaning, waste removal, and greening initiatives.
Sedibeng District Municipality has further partnered with Bapela Global Concept, to 60 participants in generic management, business administration, and new venture creation. These skills development programs are aimed at equipping participants with qualifications that can help them further their studies or seek employment opportunities beyond the EPWP program.
Additionally, discussions are underway with the Gauteng Department of Agriculture Rural Development and Environment to finalize arrangements with a training provider who will offer training on different qualification levels. This includes providing participants without matric certificates with the opportunity to acquire them, training those with matric on basic computer literacy, and offering project management skills to participants with matric and computer literacy.
Safety monitoring of participants is also a priority, with DFFE ensuring that first aiders are regularly monitored in their duties to maintain a safe working environment.
The collaboration between DFFE and the Sedibeng District Municipality underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability, job creation, and community development. Through initiatives like the Clean and Green Project and the EPWP program, tangible progress is being made in addressing environmental challenges while empowering communities.
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