The Deputy Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, will launch the Winter Clean Fires Campaign, on 9 June 2011, in Etwatwa, Stompie Skosana Hall, Ekurhuleni Municipality, Gauteng.
Air pollution in South Africa is a major concern, especially in dense and low income communities. People living in these areas depend on coal for space heating and cooking as it is the most affordable means of energy. Research conducted recently has pointed out that household fuel burning also contributed significantly to poor air quality and exacerbates the impact of Climate Change.
Basa njengo magogo or make fire like the granny – is a ‘top-down’ model of making coal fire discovered by Granny Maria “Nobelungu” Mashinini of eMbalenhle, Secunda. It is done by putting coal first, then paper, followed by wood and lighting fire; and when wood catches fire, one puts a handful of coal on top to ignite the coal at the bottom. The method was found to emit less smoke, burns longer, saves coal and money; and is much safer for the human health than the traditional method.
MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ms Nandi Mayathula – Khoza together with councillors from Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality will join the Deputy Minister during the Clean Fires campaign in Etwatwa.
Media is invited to attend as follows:
Date: 9 June 2011
Venue: Stompie Skosana Hall, Etwatwa Library (Chris Hani Drive)
Time: 10h00
To RSVP and enquiries:
Peter Mbelengwa (Spokesperson for the Deputy Minister)
Cell: 082 611 8197
E-mail: mbelengwap@dwa.gov.za
Andile Gumede
Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Cell: 071 118 3119
E-mail: andile.gumede@gauteng.gov.za
