AT least 10 people from Despatch and Uitenhage were present at a five-day environmental awareness capacity building training programme which was hosted recently at ACVV Algoa Park by the Human Settlement Action Group in partnership with Sustainable Seas Trust.
According to Human Settlement Action Group manager Tracy Lancaster, the Non-Profit Company (NPC) hopes to empower communities with information and new concepts so that they can assist themselves.
“One of our key programmes is environmental management, taking a ‘clean and green’ approach,” said Lancaster.
She further said the programme followed a train-the-trainer approach, in which community members received a diverse range of information pertaining to environmental issues.
The areas targeted were Helenvale, Motherwell, Uitenhage and Despatch.
Lancaster said peer trainers who previously participated in other projects hosted by the Human Settlement Action Group were selected in these areas.
“We chose a total of 27 individuals in each area that we have worked with before and that have a heart for their community,” said Lancaster. “These peer trainers will be a resource in their communities, educating their neighbours on concepts such as waste management, recycling, water awareness, and food gardens.”
Lancaster said the training was successful and she is hopeful that more areas in Nelson Mandela Bay will become involved in the project.
