As South Africa commemorates Nelson Mandela Month 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is turning its focus inward. Inspired by the theme: It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality, Coega is implementing sustainable interventions designed to strengthen the environmental management of its Special Economic Zone (SEZ), to promote the spirit of good citizenship and make a lasting impact in local communities.
Driven by its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Programme, Coega has partnered with Columba Leadership, the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM), the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) and the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), to establish a food garden and sustainable waste management initiative at Vulumzi Senior Secondary School in Motherwell, Gqeberha.
The initiative calls on employees and stakeholders to volunteer their time and efforts on 18 July, aligning with Coega’s CSI objectives to drive social change and shared value, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Coega is also revisiting its Mandela Month 2023 Garden Project at the Door of Hope Children’s Home to initiate a sustainability mentorship programme for the upkeep of its climate-resilient garden.
Ms. Telly Chauke, Coega’s Chief Sustainability Officer explains that this year’s initiative prioritises awareness and volunteerism in critical areas of food security, waste beneficiation, and environmental education.
“At the core of sustainability, is a commitment to a healthy planet and a just society. Volunteerism is the heart of that commitment. When volunteers lend their time and skills to environmental projects, community or school gardens, and educational initiatives, they become the driving force behind positive change. In Coega’s sustainability efforts, volunteers amplify our impact and inspire others to join the movement for a sustainable future,” says Chauke.
Coega’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond Mandela Month. By initiating these projects, Coega aims to create a lasting impact that fosters long-term partnerships for environmental and social wellbeing amongst employees and community members.
Coega’s Executive Manager for Corporate Services, Ms. Mokgaetsi Sebothoma, explains that employee volunteerism is an important element in Coega’s 2024 Mandela Month approach.
“In the spirit of Nelson Mandela, even the smallest act of volunteerism from our employees can create a ripple effect of positive change. By coming together on Mandela Day, we can amplify our impact and build a more equitable society while creating an opportunity for our employees to contribute in a meaningful way beyond being employed to earn a living, just as Madiba himself envisioned. Acts like these give us and our employees a sense of purpose in our work,” says Sebothoma.
Aligned with its commitment to shared value and its vision as a leading catalyst for socioeconomic development, Coega actively partners with like-minded organisations. This collaborative approach facilitates the sharing of knowledge and resources, ultimately empowering communities to achieve sustainable growth.
Ms. Asanda Njobe, Provincial Manager at the Columba Leadership development organisation and Coega’s sustainability partner, urges young leaders to embrace servant leadership in their schools and communities.
“Our value of service emphasises the importance of selflessly sharing resources and utilising our strengths and expertise to drive meaningful action and contribute to the greater good. Our collaboration with Coega and other organisations will enable us to create a sustainable and supportive environment for the schools and young people we serve,” says Njobe.
Recognising the vital link between environmental sustainability and economic development, Coega is harnessing the spirit of Mandela Month 2024 with impactful sustainable initiatives. These initiatives not only honour Mandela’s legacy of social justice and environmental stewardship, but also pave the way for a thriving future in the surrounding community.
“By fostering local partnerships and promoting volunteerism, Coega aims to create a lasting positive impact that extends far beyond the month of July. This dedication to longterm sustainability ensures a healthier environment, a more empowered and engaged workforce, and a brighter future for generations to come,” concludes Chauke.
