Attending the Green Economy Indaba at Nedbank’s office was an eye-opening experience for me. Held on 31 October 2024, the event brought together South Africa’s top innovators, thinkers, and changemakers to discuss the future of sustainability. With a packed agenda that included panel discussions on renewable energy, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, and waste management, I left feeling inspired and hopeful about the strides being made in our country toward a green economy.
The panels offered rich insights into some of the most pressing issues in the sustainability space. It was exciting to hear experts dissect topics like renewable energy and environmental resilience. One panelist said, “This isn’t just about going green for the sake of it. This is about building a sustainable future that ensures the survival and prosperity of all South Africans.”
Nedbank’s commitment to a sustainable future was evident in every aspect of the event, from the knowledgeable speakers to the thoughtful discussions on how to drive real impact in our communities. Their Green Economy Strategy is impressive, targeting four critical areas: water, energy, waste, and agriculture. It’s encouraging to see a bank taking such an active role in addressing our country’s social and environmental challenges.
A Night to Honour Green Innovators
After a day of insightful discussions, the Green Economy Awards ceremony was held at the luxurious Sandton Hotel. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as attendees gathered to celebrate South Africa’s leaders in green innovation. One of the highlights of the night was the presentation of the “Impact Partner of the Year Award” to Local Village, a social enterprise that has achieved remarkable success in supporting community socioeconomic development. Their model is unique – they empower rural communities by helping members establish small businesses, equipping them with vital skills in manufacturing, business management, and financial literacy, and connecting them to markets. It’s a comprehensive approach that makes a real difference.
As Kensi Nobanda, Nedbank’s Executive for Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, presented the award, she reflected on Nedbank’s dedication to sustainable development. “There is no sustainable Nedbank without a sustainable South Africa,” she emphasised. “None of our businesses thrive if this country doesn’t thrive. This green economy strategy isn’t just about making progress; it’s about fuelling economic growth, creating jobs, and uplifting communities across the country.”
The awards didn’t stop there. Other organisations were recognised for their groundbreaking contributions in each of Nedbank’s priority areas:
- Mishies Company in Limpopo, honoured for their achievements in pollution and waste management.
- Pheko Group in Gauteng, recognised for their advancements in sustainable agriculture.
- Dziphatu Green Tech (Pty) Ltd in Limpopo, celebrated for their social innovation in waste management.
- Big Q Enterprise (Pty) Ltd and The Hill Trading in the Eastern Cape, for their significant contributions to energy and water management.
- Leano Agri Cop in Gauteng, recognised for their work in sustainable land use.
The winners received cash prizes ranging from R50,000 to R200,000, representing Nedbank’s investment in scaling solutions that not only address environmental issues but also promote inclusive economic growth. It’s clear that the bank views these awards not as a one-off event, but as an integral part of fostering an environmentally and economically resilient South Africa.
Partnerships That Drive Change
In her closing remarks, Nobanda highlighted the vital role of partnerships in driving the green economy agenda. “These partnerships aren’t just meaningful; they’re impactful,” she said. “Together, we’re proving that strong collaborations can create a future that is not only environmentally responsible but also economically resilient.”
The Green Economy Indaba and Awards left a lasting impression on me. It was a reminder of how collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision can bring about real change. For anyone interested in contributing to a sustainable South Africa, this event was a testament to the power of unity in addressing our country’s environmental challenges.