Africa-Press – Eswatini. The ministry of tourism and environmental affairs has launched the annual Temvelo Awards.
The awards, which are expected to take place on July 28 were launched yesterday at Happy Valley by Minister Moses Vilakati.
The minister said the awards are meant to be a constant reminder of the environmental responsibilities that Emaswati have to play.
“Eswatini, through several international agreements and protocols has committed to adhere to certain environmental standards towards the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“The hosting of this project is a clear demonstration of government’s commitment to promote a clean, safe and healthy environment,” the minister stated.
He added that the project also kick-started activities that seek to replenish the already depleted environmental resources as the country deals with the COVID-19 pandemic and unusual weather patterns, within the objects of Agenda 2030.
According to the minister the awards involve the engagement of individuals, communities, private sector, government, parastatals and non-governmental organisations.
According to Vilakati the project promotes environmental sustainability, showcases best practices in the environmental space and rewards those that are making an effort.
“This will unearth the challenges and opportunities that exist within diverse sectors during these unusual times. As always, it will motivate the private sector to invest in environment and eco-tourism, ensuring maximum yield from the country’s rich eco systems,” the minister said.
The launch according to the minister marks the start of the processes leading to the main day of the awards, which include; countrywide nominations of eligible awardees cutting across varied environmental activities, selection of adjudicators and the process of adjudicating the entries.
The 2022 Temvelo Awards have 18 categories recognising best practice in several areas.
The minister appealed to the private sector and development partners to partner with government in this initiative by way of financial and in-kind sponsorship.
“I would also like to plead with the media to promote this project and also participate in the awards as there are relevant categories specifically for the media,” Vilakati stated.
He added that all enquiries in relation to the awards must be directed to Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC). ENTC Board Chairperson Dr Sikhomba Gumbi appealed for support from sponsors saying the project is very important as it seeks to protect the environment.
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