This article, shared by GLOBE POST, highlights the inspiring work being done to promote environmental justice in South Africa through the Action for Accountability (A4A) project. Led by The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Accountability Lab South Africa, and the Public Service Accountability Monitor, the project brings communities together to tackle issues like wetland restoration and improving sanitation. The article shines a light on the important role of Civic Action Teams in driving these efforts, making a real difference in local communities. It also recaps the recent People’s Council event, where leaders came together to share ideas and collaborate on solutions for better governance and a cleaner environment.

Environmental justice remains a critical concern in South Africa, where communities facing socioeconomic challenges are often deprived of essential services like clean drinking water, proper sanitation, and waste management. These communities, burdened by pollution and environmental degradation, suffer disproportionately from the impacts of climate change, leading to adverse effects on their health, education, and overall well-being.

In response to these pressing issues, Action for Accountability (A4A), a project led by The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Accountability Lab South Africa, and the Public Service Accountability Monitor, organized its annual People’s Council event on August 15th and 16th at the Amazwi South African Museum of Literature in Makhanda. Themed “Co-creation towards accountability and environmental justice,” the event gathered leaders from academia, civil society, government, and local communities to address these complex challenges and develop actionable agendas for mutual accountability.

The event kicked off with a keynote speech by Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka, who highlighted opportunities for co-creating environmental justice. This was followed by expert panels featuring voices such as Dr. Ferrial Adam from WaterCAN, Mr. Sakhe Ntlabezo from the Makhanda Circle of Unity, and Mr. Kabelo Mothusi from Kagiso Trust, who discussed strategies for enhancing governance and public services through community trust and engagement.

Read the rest of this article here.

GLOBE POST