2024 Eco-Community Finalists Award Finalists
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For a community or school that has acted collectively and effectively to protect, preserve, or restore the Earth's biodiversity, eco-systems, or natural resources.
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Abalimi Bezekhaya
Abalimi Bezekhaya, meaning "farmers of the home" in isiXhosa, is a non-profit urban farming organisation based in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1982, it empowers disadvantaged communities in the Cape Flats through organic urban agriculture. The organisation provides training, access to agricultural inputs, soil and infrastructure support, and market access assistance, enabling food security, nutrition, health, and income generation. By supporting over 3,000 micro-farmers annually, Abalimi Bezekhaya promotes sustainable farming practices, community building, and environmental stewardship, transforming vacant urban spaces into productive green areas.
Mosselbank River Conservation Team NPC
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of a poverty-stricken area, Fisantekraal, where the Mosselbank River meanders through vital wetlands, a beacon of hope has emerged—the Mosselbank River Conservation Team (MRCT). Embracing a vision of sustainable coexistence between communities and nature, this community-based organization stands at the forefront of safeguarding the precious wetlands and rolling out comprehensive environmental education programs. At the heart of our mission lies the preservation of the Mosselbank River's delicate ecosystem. With unwavering dedication, we strive to restore and protect these vital wetlands, serving as a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. By fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and nature, we aim to ensure the river and its surroundings thrive for generations to come. Our motto: “Education, Conservation, Participation and Connection at the Mosselbank River.”
Protect The West Coast NPC
PTWC is a registered NPC and PBO whose main mandate in its first 3 years of existence was to bring what is happening on the West Coast from a mining perspective into the public domain. The diamond and now mineral mining industry has been wreaking havoc on the West Coast for the past 100 years by mining illegally and unchecked, resulting in vast stretches of coastline that remain devastated, unrehabilitated and the communities around them some of the poorest in South Africa.
From 2023, PTWC’s mandate has grown into three pillars of operation with a fourth(education) coming in 2025.
The three pillars are as follows:
- Visibility – continue to bring illegal mining practices into the public domain through storytelling and media.
- Legal – holding mining houses legally accountable through the courts. In 2024 we took Trans Hex to court and won through an out-of-court settlement.
- Accountability – holding several mining companies accountable for their various mining plans.