Government and the Nqadu Kingdom have launched a long-term partnership to create green jobs, restore ecosystems and strengthen rural development through environmental programmes.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has announced a long-term partnership with the Nqadu Kingdom aimed at unlocking rural economic development through forestry, environmental restoration, climate resilience and green economy initiatives. The partnership follows engagements between the Department, the Kingdom and other stakeholders to identify opportunities that promote environmental sustainability and inclusive economic development.
Speaking during the Nature Based Carbon Dioxide Removal and Rural Development Initiatives in the Eastern Cape, Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts said the initiative marked the start of a long-term collaboration.
“Today’s engagement therefore represents more than a consultation. It marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between the Kingdom, government, the private sector and development partners to build a resilient green economy that creates jobs, restores ecosystems and improves livelihoods,” said Swarts.
One of the first commitments announced is the donation of 2,000 indigenous and fruit trees as part of government’s One Billion Trees Programme. Of these, 750 indigenous trees will be delivered immediately, while the remaining 1,250 fruit trees will be delivered before 15 August 2026. The initiative forms part of the national target to plant 10 million trees on Heritage Day 2026.
The Department also confirmed that it has already transferred the management of seven state plantations to beneficiary communities within the Nqadu area through its Community Forestry Agreement programme and plans to transfer four additional plantations during the current financial year. Strategic partnerships with forestry companies are also being facilitated to provide investment, technical expertise, skills transfer and market access for community-owned forestry enterprises.
The Eastern Cape remains one of South Africa’s priority provinces for forestry expansion, with more than 100,000 hectares identified as having afforestation potential, subject to technical assessments and commercial viability. The Department believes this presents opportunities to create jobs while supporting downstream industries such as timber processing, furniture manufacturing and biomass energy.
The partnership also includes programmes focused on ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry and food security. The Nqadu Kingdom is expected to benefit from initiatives such as the South African Great Green Wall Initiative and the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme, which support community-led environmental projects and climate resilience.
Electronic waste recycling has also been identified as an opportunity for rural enterprise development. Building on the Department’s national e-waste programme, which has already collected more than 108 tonnes of electronic waste while generating approximately R400,000 in incentives for communities, similar initiatives are planned to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people and women.
The partnership will also expand the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), rehabilitate degraded land, strengthen partnerships with TVET colleges and universities, and establish a joint technical task team to oversee implementation and monitor progress.
Swarts said the partnership should focus on practical implementation that delivers lasting benefits.
“The vision before us is clear. Together, we have an opportunity to realise the Kingdom’s natural resources into lasting economic opportunities that create jobs, restore ecosystems, strengthen food security and improve the quality of life of our people,” said Swarts.
The Department said the partnership marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to transforming the Nqadu Kingdom’s natural assets into sustainable economic opportunities that benefit communities for generations to come.
