Environmental Affairs Minister

The Department of Environmental Affairs new R8-billion "green building", now under construction in Pretoria, illustrates South Africa's determination to move towards a low-carbon economy, Minister Edna Molewa said at the sod-turning ceremony on Thursday.

Civil society group Lead SA pledged to make former statesman Nelson Mandela's 94th birthday one he will never forget. This they ensured by making sure South Africa, and the world, stand as one to wish Madiba all the best.

Civil society group Lead SA pledged to make former statesman Nelson Mandela's 94th birthday one he will never forget. This they ensured by making sure South Africa, and the world, stand as one to wish Madiba the best.
• How does Mandela Day inspire you?

On 18 July, people across South Africa and around the world joined in celebrating Nelson Mandela's 94th birthday, and his vision of a better world for all, by giving some of their time for those less fortunate - together creating the ultimate birthday present for Madiba: the love of the world.

South African President Jacob Zuma traded his luxury motorcade for a Metrorail train on a chilly winter's morning on Thursday in order to get first-hand experience of the country's public transport system at its busiest - during rush-hour in Gauteng province.

Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa celebrated World Environment Day 2012 by announcing plans to create over 60 000 new jobs this year - and 300 000 new jobs by 2020 - with the focus on women, the youth and people with disabilities.

South Africa's drinking water is among the best in the world, and the country remains one of few in which water can still be consumed from the tap, Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa said at the release of the 2012 Blue Drop report.

South Africa’s second polar research vessel, the cutting-edge SA Agulhas II, has arrived in South African waters and is expected to embark on her maiden voyage to Gough Island in September.
• Preserving memories of Antarctica

The National Treasury has allocated R800-million over the next two years for South Africa's Green Fund, which aims to provide finance for high-quality, high-impact, job-creating green economy projects around the country.

While the government is stepping up measures to combat rhino poaching in South Africa, joint initiatives are called for if the war is to be won, says Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa.