Tributes continue to pour in for the late Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa, who has been described as an outstanding ambassador for environmental activism and sustainable development both internationally and domestically.
Molewa passed away on Saturday after being admitted to a Gauteng hospital earlier this month.
The Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs has extended its condolences, saying it is saddened by her passing. Molewa, committee chair Phillemon Mapulane said, contributed to ensuring that South Africa is on par with other nations on matters that affect the sustainable use of the environment.
Molewa made significant contributions at international multi-lateral platforms on issues concerning the conservation of the environment and she played a pivotal role in the adoption of the historic climate change agreement in 2015, the Paris Agreement.
“Minister Molewa made significant contributions… to global efforts that seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She played a key role in South Africa hosting a successful 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Johannesburg, which took place from 24 September to 5 October 2016,” said Mapulane.
Mapulane hailed the sterling role Molewa played and her stewardship, which led to the decrease in the numbers of rhinos being killed in South Africa three years in a row. He said this is a testament to Molewa’s experience and skills within the sector.
The KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council has also paid tribute to the late Minister, saying they share in the nation’s sadness at the demise of this gallant and hardworking leader, who spent her life pursuing genuine political and economic freedom for the people.
“Molewa also worked for the entire planet, seeking to secure a future not only for this generation but also for the generation to come. Her loss is ours as a province, but we also believe for the international community and humanity at large, to which Minister Molewa dedicated the last years of her life.”
Molewa’s political home, the ANC Women’s League in the North West, described her as a symbol of rare social and political activism, saying her passing is a great loss to the women of the country and the government sphere. – SAnews.gov.za
