Minister Molewa was key note speaker at a high profile event which coincided with the annual SANParks week.
The eco-furniture factory is funded by the Department of Environmental Affairs, and an employment-creating project of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). The main wood supply is from the invasive alien vegetation within SANParks land and on private land adjacent to it, largely dominated by blue gum and black wattle.
"Whilst we remove the alien vegetation to conserve our water resources and enhance biodiversity, at the same time we are also crea-ting jobs for our people while developing their skills. We use blue gum that is cleared from our parks for the manufacturing of furniture, while wattle is used for poles, walking sticks and related products," the minister said.
"Through this factory, we have been able to create about 52 jobs with school desks and benches to be produced for various government departments. Initiatives of this nature will particularly target the poor."
The prestigious event was preceded by a live recording of the Morning Live TV show held at Farleigh forest. A number of high profile dignitaries attended.
A tour of the eco furniture factory was undertaken, and a total of 30 school desks were handed over to the representatives of the Western Cape Education Department, IMG manager Michael Spies, and Mr Olsen from the Lancewood Primary School.
The student choir of NMMU George , and the local ministerial band provided a fitting upbeat note to this joyful occasion.
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Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa (right) unveiled a plaque at the official opening of the eco furniture factory held at Farleigh. From left - Nosipho Ngcaba (DG: DWEA), Paul Daphne, Executive Manager: Parks; Kgosi Ledimo, Director: Business Development FNB), Minister Molewa, Mayor of George Charles Standers and Wanda Mkutshulwa of SANParks.
(Compiled by Pauline Lourens)
