The Mosselbank River Conservation Team (MRCT), a community-based non-profit organisation in Fisantekraal near Durbanville, has received national recognition for its commitment to wetland conservation, winning the Education and Skills Development category at the 2026 National Wetlands Indaba (NWI).

Hosted by the Western Cape Wetlands Forum branch at Club Mykonos in Langebaan from 19 to 22 October 2026, the annual Indaba brings together scientists, researchers, conservationists, educators, decision-makers and government representatives to share knowledge and strengthen the management, conservation and sustainable use of South Africa’s wetlands.

The awards were presented during the Indaba’s annual gala evening on Wednesday 21 October, when individuals and organisations were recognised for their contributions to wetland conservation across several categories, including Education and Skills Development, Science and Research, Stewardship, and Young Professional.

The MRCT was nominated in two categories — Education and Skills Development, and Stewardship — and took home the award for Education and Skills Development. The category recognises significant contributions to wetland education and skills development through training, collaboration, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, educational resources and environmental awareness initiatives.

Danielle Cronje, director and co-founder of the MRCT, with the NWI award for Education & Skills Development. Her dress was made with the help of her team with their handprints and was a special way of including them in the awards ceremony. Photo: Charlene Smuts

The achievement was particularly fitting given this year’s Indaba theme, which centred on wetlands and traditional knowledge.

Building a legacy through community action

Established in July 2017, the MRCT is a non-profit organisation comprising 35 community volunteers who serve as custodians of their section of the Mosselbank River and its associated valley-bottom wetlands.

Over the past nine years, the team has developed and implemented a range of environmental education, conservation and advocacy programmes, encouraging local residents to become actively involved in protecting their natural heritage.

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At the Indaba, MRCT director and co-founder Danielle Cronje presented on how the organisation has built its heritage and legacy through practical, community-driven conservation activities.

Her presentation highlighted the importance of “learning by doing”, with initiatives including indigenous planting days, alien invasive plant clearing, citizen science, biodiversity monitoring, skills development, environmental education, community engagement and advocacy.

These activities provide volunteers with practical experience while deepening their understanding of the local environment and the importance of protecting it for future generations.

“An important part of this is that every activity builds practical skills, knowledge, confidence and a sense of ownership. Learning by doing transforms participation into understanding, understanding into pride, and pride into a lasting commitment to conservation,” said Cronje.

Recognition for dedication and perseverance

Reflecting on the award, Cronje expressed her pride in the team and gratitude for the recognition of its ongoing efforts.

“I am so incredibly proud of my team and this recognition. NPO work often goes unrecognised and is undervalued, and this award shows that our commitment, consistency and dedication have paid off,” she said.

She also thanked the judging panel and the South African Wetlands Society for acknowledging the organisation’s contribution.

For the MRCT, the award represents more than an individual achievement. It recognises the collective efforts of community volunteers who have dedicated their time and skills to safeguarding the Mosselbank River and its surrounding wetlands while inspiring others to take an active role in conservation.

As the team continues its work in Fisantekraal, the recognition highlights the value of community-led environmental initiatives and the role that practical education, local knowledge and sustained volunteer commitment can play in protecting South Africa’s wetland ecosystems.

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