Spotlight on creating biodiversity economy

Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa has challenged communities to awaken to the possibilities available in the biodiversity economy.

The Minister was speaking at the official handover of Kgoroši Recreational Park to the community of Ga-Kgoroši in Matlala, Polokwane, on Thursday.

The R12 million project was funded and implemented through the Department of Environmental Affairs’ Environmental Protection and Infrastructure Programme), with the aim of creating jobs, skills development and empowerment of small businesses.

It used labour intensive methods, as per the requirements of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). It created work opportunities for at least 171 local people – mostly women and youth, and four people with disabilities.

The project, which commenced in December 2014, included the construction of a perimeter wall, an education centre and storage building, the construction of two ab- lution facilities for men and women, as well as the installation of paving and braai areas. It also included the construction of a control house at the access gate, the installation of a water and reticulation system that utilises septic tanks with French drains, and the planting of trees and general landscaping.

The National Biodiversity Economy Strategy seeks to increase the biodiversity contribution to the gross domestic product, while conserving the country’s ecosystems. - SAnews.gov.za