The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) celebrated the annual Grasslands and National Wetlands Week in Chrissiesmeer last Thursday.
The collective celebration of grass- and wetlands had the theme “Mpumalanga’s Twin Treasures – Wings over Mpumalanga”.
In November last year, the Environmental Affairs Portfolio MEC declared the Mpumalanga Provincial Grassland Week, making it a first in the country.
The ecosystem benefits provided by grass- and wetlands include their ability to improve water quality in rivers.
In her keynote address, Head of Department (HOD) Ms P.S. Xulu said not only are the grasslands and wetlands the province’s greatest sets, but they are also the most threatened environmental features.
“Despite the direct and indirect value of these ecosystems, they have been severely affected by human activities. Pressure for coal mining is on the rise in Mpumalanga, placing the twin treasures in our region under more pressure. This is as aresult of the energy crisis in the country and global demand for crude oil,” said Ms Xulu.
Also present at the event and giving messages of support were EWT Communications manager Ms Lillian Mlambo, Mr Brian Morris (Senior Manager for Protected Areas), Mr DaveRathbone (chairman of Matotoland Tourism) and Ms Kristi Garland of Birdlife South Africa.
Sboniso Dlamini, a learner of Laerskool Chrissiesmeer and third place winner in the 13 to 16 age group in the African Art Competition, was also present. He will be receiving a laptop from the department soon,
Mr Rathbone presented Ms Xulu with a book by a Chrissiesmeer faithful and author, Tom Sanders.
