Top: ECD Practitioners at Qalabotjha Creche in action conducting the lesson with the children. Bottom right: Construction of the new tank at Thuto Ke Lesedi Educare Centre; bottom left: Beneficiaries posed for a photo during a recent visit, celebrating Heritage Day.

On the 25^th and 26^th of September 2025, the WESSA team successfully implemented another phase of the project at four ECD schools in Villiers, Free State, with a strong focus on building resilience through water conservation. The programme introduced young learners to the importance of adopting sustainable practices, particularly the use of low-flow plumbing fixtures and good daily water-saving habits. By tailoring the content to an ECD level, the sessions created an engaging learning environment where children could understand the value of protecting water resources in simple, practical ways.

A key highlight of the implementation was the emphasis on rainwater harvesting, especially as the schools prepare for the upcoming summer season. Learners and educators were encouraged to view rainwater as a valuable resource that can supplement daily needs while easing pressure on municipal supply. This practical approach not only equipped the schools with knowledge and skills but also instilled habits of conservation and responsibility, laying a foundation for lifelong stewardship of water resources.

A notable achievement was the installation of a new water tank at Thuto Ke Lesedi Educare Centre, a milestone that has brought much-needed relief to the school community. For a long time, the centre had been struggling with persistent water challenges, which affected daily operations and the well-being of the learners. The new tank now ensures reliable water storage, providing a sustainable solution that supports both teaching and learning while promoting better hygiene and overall school resilience.

Green Coast Programme: Building Resilient Coastal Destinations

WESSA supported a strong cohort of 16 Green Coast applications for the 2025/26 season, with nine of these being from new sites. Applicants submitted evidence and completed readiness checks, which were reviewed by the National Green Coast Jury in September. The results will be announced at the Annual Blue Flag and Green Coast Award Ceremony at the end of October 2025.

Green Coast aims to strengthen sustainable development along South Africa’s coastline by linking biodiversity care with nature-based tourism. The programme focuses on inclusive, educational, and locally beneficial initiatives—from creating accessible trails and enhancing interpretive signage to citizen-science monitoring and clean-ups that improve visitor experience. These efforts help build resilient destinations that create jobs while protecting ecosystems.

International coastal cleanup turns awareness into action

In September, the Green Coast network showed strong participation in International Coastal Cleanup. Many partners paired clean-ups with educational pop-ups, litter-audit data collection, and marine-safety messaging. Several sites spotlighted the Stop the Strangle campaign by installing or servicing fishing-line bins and mapping entanglement-risk hotspots.

These efforts translated awareness into measurable action: cleaner beaches, safer wildlife, and communities mobilised to keep plastic and fishing line out of our oceans.

Recognising partners on World Tourism Day

On World Tourism Day (27 September), WESSA recognised the municipal, NGO, private-sector, and community partners who bring impact to the Coastal Programme, showcasing how collaboration drives sustainable coastal management.

Blue Flag Programme: Celebrating Excellence in Coastal and Marine Tourism

WESSA sincerely acknowledges the outstanding commitment of year-round Blue Flag Sustainable Tourism operators, whose continued efforts ensure responsible coastal and marine tourism and set a global standard of excellence.

Special appreciation goes to Marine Dynamics Whale & Shark Tours, Offshore Adventures, and White Shark Diving Company. These operators demonstrate how eco-tourism can protect biodiversity while providing visitors with world-class, environmentally responsible experiences.

Blue Flag recognition also extends to marinas including the V&A Waterfront, Thesen Island Homeowners Association, Thesen Harbour Town, and Royal Alfred Marina. These sites uphold high standards of clean waters, safe facilities, and sustainable management, making them model destinations for both locals and international visitors.

We commend the Blue Flag Beaches under Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Umdoni Municipality, and KwaDukuza Municipality, whose dedicated teams ensure safe, clean, and environmentally conscious beaches that attract tourism, create jobs, and foster community pride.

A shared commitment

Together, these operators and partners continue to fly the Sustainability Flag high. Their commitment demonstrates that tourism, conservation, and community benefit can go hand-in-hand—protecting natural heritage while strengthening responsible and sustainable tourism for the future.

[Top left to right] Dr JL Dube learners, Buhlebemfundo High Learners and Teacher; [bottom left to right] Shea O’connor learners & Teacher; Dr JL Dube learners

In celebration of Arbor Month, WESSA’s Youth Team joined hands with learners and educators across KwaZulu-Natal to make a lasting impact through tree planting sessions. The initiative formed part of South Africa’s national “One Million Trees” Campaign, with trees generously donated by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).

We kicked off on 18 September 2025 at Makhawula Primary School in Ndwedwe and JE Ndlovu Secondary School in KwaMashu. With sleeves rolled up and spades in hand, learners and teachers embraced the opportunity to create greener school spaces. Guided by WESSA staff, the plantings highlighted how small actions—like planting a single tree—can contribute to a healthier environment and a sustainable future.

Momentum carried forward on 23 September 2025 at Shea O’Connor Combined School in Nottingham Road, where the atmosphere was filled with excitement and unity. Each tree planted stood as a symbol of resilience, growth, and hope, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship for generations to come.

The final sessions, held on 25 September at Dr JL Dube High School and Buhlebemfundo High School, brought the campaign to a powerful close. With every tree placed in the ground, learners were reminded of the wider benefits of greening initiatives—from enhancing biodiversity to driving climate action and improving community well-being.

Through this Arbor Month programme, WESSA encouraged learners to take pride in being custodians of the environment. Together, these schools and young people demonstrated how collective action can grow into a legacy of sustainability for South Africa.

From 15–19 September 2025, Glencore-funded schools joined the national Clean-up and Recycle SA Campaign Week, a highlight on the environmental calendar that inspires communities to tackle waste and embrace sustainable living.

Four schools proudly took part in this year’s programme: Mabande Secondary School and Thuthukani Primary School in Phola, Ogies, as well as Lehlaka Combined School and Amandla Primary School in the Kriel area. The initiative focused on raising awareness about the impact of waste while encouraging learners to work together on innovative ways to recycle and upcycle.

The week began with eco-committee learners addressing their peers at the assembly, explaining the importance of the campaign and sharing why waste management matters. This was followed by a hands-on clean-up campaign, where learners collected and sorted different types of waste, identifying which items could be recycled or reused.

In a creative twist, learners showcased their innovation by designing clothing, art pieces, and bags from waste materials. These items were proudly displayed around the schools, linking environmental responsibility with creativity and problem-solving. Recyclable materials collected during the week were also added to each school’s recycling project, ensuring the effort continues beyond the campaign.

By combining education, action, and innovation, the campaign empowered learners to see waste differently — not just as a problem, but as an opportunity to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.

This Heritage Month, on 22 and 24 September, WESSA brought the magic of cinema and conservation together, hosting two special screenings of The Last Ranger for 300 children from communities neighbouring Addo Elephant National Park.

“This is an incredible moment for inclusive conservation strategies in South Africa. It links South African youth to the real-life experiences of the conservation of our natural heritage – in this case, our rhinos. I would like to thank the team at Kindred Films who supported us to have these important conversations, using The Last Ranger film as the tool to Educate, Advocate and Act for a collective conservation. To our SANParks colleagues at Addo Elephant National Park, this would not have been possible without your partnership – what a way to kick off SANParks Week,” says Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA CEO.

Co-Founder of Kindred Films, Will Hawkes, adds “The most effective way to inspire a mind is by telling a story. The Kindred Films team is honoured to partner with WESSA and SANParks to share The Last Ranger film with students in the Eastern Cape. We hope it will inspire them to believe in the majesty of South African rhinos and to take responsibility for their survival.”

Each event was more than a film screening; it was an immersive experience in conservation. Learners entered the park, enjoyed a meal, and engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with conservation leaders who shared their personal journeys and insights into protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.

SANParks Rhino awareness session – Addo Primary and AV Bukani Primary school learners engaged

The film’s message of courage, community, and hope resonated deeply with the children, sparking conversations about the role of young people in safeguarding our environment. Their feedback reflected the courage and resilience shown in the film. As one learner put it: “My favourite part of the movie was when the woman sacrificed her life for the rhino.” Another added: “When the ranger told the young girl, ‘You are very strong,’ it inspired me not to give up on my dreams.”

Generous support made it all possible

Thanks to the generous support of WESSA’s donors, and strategic partners including South African National Parks (SANParks), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Kindred Films, Nedbank and the NOA Group – 300 learners could take part in this unforgettable experience.

“Our staff volunteerism programme is purpose-driven, and this partnership with WESSA offered us an opportunity to authentically live that purpose. It aligns directly with our strategic focus on the Green Economy, while also reflecting our deep commitment to youth by unlocking opportunities for the next generation of leaders. As The Last Ranger reminds us, conservation is a deeply human act — a reflection on legacy, responsibility, and the emotional bonds between people and the wild. This experience captured that sentiment perfectly. For these young learners, it wasn’t just about teaching facts; it was about igniting a sense of responsibility, an understanding of legacy, and a love for the natural world that will stay with them for a lifetime,” shares Jehaan Anthony, Head of Staff Volunteerism and Advocacy at Nedbank’s Social Impact Unit.

“NOA, on behalf of our Wind Garden wind farm project, is proud to support The Last Ranger initiative, as part of our commitment to conservation and biodiversity. By sharing this powerful story with local youth, we hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate the importance of protecting our wildlife and to recognise the remarkable dedication of the rangers and veterinarians working on the frontlines of conservation in South Africa,” says Angela Harrison, Socio-Economic Development Manager of NOA Group.

La Trobe Primary school learners completing the National Park Activity booklet

Career pathways in the green economy for young people

“Through these screenings we can introduce young people to potential career pathways in the green economy, including biodiversity conservation, environmental management, waste innovation, as well as sustainable agriculture. WESSA does this by building early awareness of environmental challenges and the role youth can play as well as introducing future-focused skills and knowledge,” adds Kelly Alcock, WESSA’s Head of Education and Sustainability.

Here’s a heartfelt message that WESSA received from Peter Hendricks, the Principal at La Trobe Primary School: “I would like to pour out our gratitude for the opportunity you gave our kids, to see and experience what overseas visitors come and do on our shores. You might not know it, but for many kids that was the best meal they had in many a moon. You might not know it, but for many, that was the closest they’ll get to a Christmas atmosphere. The visit to the field was memorable and exquisite. The lessons were practical and self-exploratory. Thank you for creating lasting, educational memories in our kids, with an authentic appreciation for our unique heritage. WESSA, Eco-Schools and SANParks, take a bow! ” 

WESSA remains committed to creating these life-changing opportunities, opening doors for young people to imagine themselves as future conservation leaders.

If you’d like to support more initiatives like this, click here: https://www.wessa.org.za/donate/

From left to right: Reitberg Primary School painting Rhino artboard; Vusumzi Primary Schoo educators and learners with Rhino artboard; [bottom] AV Bukani Primary School Group photo