Finding funding for environmental projects can be difficult; seeing the Development Bank of Southern Africa fund these kinds of projects is inspiring!
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (03 July 2023) – Investment into South Africa’s natural environment is a source of great pride for those who work so hard to keep our natural spaces clean and safe. Having a bank be committed to improving KwaZulu-Natal’s environment, means these conservationists and environmentally inclined organisations have a real chance at making a difference.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) focuses on sustainable development and preserving natural ecosystems for future generations. DBSA partners with municipalities, government, the private sector, NGOs, and academics to implement infrastructure projects incorporating gender, social, and environmental aspects to create sustainable growth.
Some of the flourishing projects include the Enviro-Champ programme. This helps with biodiversity management and creates employment opportunities for people living in informal settlements. The programme trains participants to understand the natural environment around them and the impact of human activities on them.
The Enviro-Champ programme employs people to become environmental stewards and champions. Participants undergo a series of training exercises to better understand the natural environment and its importance. As they live in and around the areas they work in, the participants begin urging family, friends and neighbours to support the environment too, sharing their newly gained knowledge.
Why would a bank fund environmental efforts? It’s actually simple – when natural infrastructure functions effectively, funding costs decrease. Catchment areas with well-preserved natural spaces are more likely to weather droughts, flooding and other extreme events over time.
Asanda Khuzwayo is passionate about nature and the importance of protecting it for future generations. As part of her work as a trainee, she visits various projects financed by DBSA to promote biodiversity and encourage environmental and social sustainability.
On a recent trip to KwaZulu-Natal, Asanda marvelled at the beauty of the area and visited several projects to get a first-hand look into how people are working towards bettering the environment. She shared her hopes for South Africa and with her passion, there is no doubt they can become a reality.
“There is always hope. We are here, we are hope! It is very critical in fact, for us to be in these spaces to make a difference.” – Asanda Khuzwayo
Asanda and DBSA are working to create a more resilient and prosperous future by investing in sustainable development. All this effort will help communities better adapt to climate change. She believes that it is critical for people to understand the work that they do and to involve communities in their efforts.
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