between desertification and climate change
19 June 2007
The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Ms Rejoice
Mabudafhasi, together with the Eastern Cape Provincial government,
non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the private sector and communities will
converge at Machubeni in the Eastern Cape in commemoration of World Day to
Combat Desertification (WDCD) on Wednesday, 20 June 2007.
Celebrated annually on 17 June, the pertinent WDCD theme for 2007 is
"Desertification and Climate Change - One Global Challenge," as declared by the
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
The Machubeni Catchment Management project in Emalahleni Municipality will
come under the spotlight during the celebrations which are aimed at raising
awareness while showcasing initiatives contributing to combating
desertification and climate change.
World Day to Combat Desertification provides an opportunity to highlight
sustainable solutions designed to combat desertification while emphasising the
integral community participation dimension.
To date the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has introduced
eight pilot projects totalling R40 million to rehabilitate land and fight land
degradation under the Community Based Natural Resources Management (CBNRM)
Programme.
The media is invited to attend and be part of the proceedings to view the
projects. For further information and/or interviews with the Deputy Minister,
Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, please contact:
Mr Mava Scott
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 411 9821
Mr Moses Rannditsheni
Media Liaison Officer for the Deputy Minister
Tel: 012 310 3899
Cell: 082 448 2450
E-mail: MRannditsheni@deat.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
19 June 2007
