The Deputy Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi will officially open the 4th Waste Management Officers Khoro on 14 October 2013 at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
The Waste Khoro will see approximately 500 delegates converge under the theme, “Making the Management of Waste a collective effort.” Discussions at the Khoro will be centralised around the implementation of the National Development Plan, the Outcome 10 service delivery agreements, and the National Waste Management Strategy which prioritises the development of clean and sustainable environments for all and most importantly, the participation of all citizens in development matters. Waste management is central to the improvement of the standard of living and has a potential to alleviate poverty through job creation opportunities which exist in waste collection, recycling and other forms of waste management in general.
Waste management has since 2009, made a remarkable yet gradual policy shift with the introduction of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) (NEMWA). The NEMWA serves as one of the catalysts aimed at fast tracking the implementation of integrated waste management systems.
The NEMWA is being implemented through the National Waste Management Strategy (NWMS) which was approved by cabinet in 2011. Waste management in South Africa faces numerous challenges including the growing volumes of waste generated due to economic growth, population growth and the complexity of waste streams generated. Lack of sufficient recycling infrastructure, reclamation systems and insufficient funding mechanisms further add to the complexity of this composite challenge. Central to these challenges; is a need for continued coordination and sharing of resources amongst the three spheres of government as well as industry and civil society in order to make momentous changes in the waste management sector.
The Khoro is a platform for all Waste Management Officers, waste management practitioners and other related officials from the three spheres of government to share experiences and discuss challenges, possible solutions and opportunities with a goal of improving waste management in the country.
Media are invited to the opening session of the Waste Khoro:
Details:
Date: 14 October 2013
Time: 08h00 – 11h00
Venue: Olive Convention Centre, 81 Somtseu Road North Beach, Durban
To RSVP please contact:
Raymond Ramaru
Tel: 012 395 1824
E-mail: Rramaru@environment.gov.za
For media queries, please contact:
Albi Modise
Cell: 083 490 2871
