The 10th Annual Green Youth Indaba, hosted at the Durban ICC, brought together over 1 000 young changemakers, innovators, and experts from across South Africa for two days of action-driven dialogue under the theme: “A Decade of Action: Driving Sustainable Innovation.”
This year’s milestone Indaba showcased more than just ideas, it was a catalytic platform for solutions that marry environmental sustainability with youth employment and local economic development.
One of the standout voices was Mr. Ineeleng Molete, CEO of the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA), who presented a compelling case on how green manufacturing can be used as a tool to tackle youth unemployment and drive sustainable local economic development.
“Bursaries and funding from LGSETA are now intentionally biased toward the green economy sector,” Molete stated. “This aligns with national government accords signed to prioritize going green.”
LGSETA is not only investing in green-focused SMMEs but is also supporting wastepreneurs and funding programmes that transform workplaces into active learning centres. From as early as Grade 10, the authority is exploring collaborations to integrate green economy principles into the school curriculum, laying the foundation for future-focused skills.
In a bold international move, LGSETA has partnered with 11 cities in China, giving South African students exposure to advanced technologies like water treatment systems and clean energy infrastructure—skills essential for running smart, sustainable municipalities.
Molete emphasized that LGSETA’s partnership with Green Youth Indaba represents more than just participation:
“It’s a demonstration of our intent to move beyond talk shops. These platforms must advance real youth interests.”
Another powerful voice at the Indaba was Dr. Mmaphefo Thwala, a Water Sector Specialist at the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA). She spotlighted the critical need to invest in youth to sustain the country’s water ecosystems.
South Africa’s rivers, wetlands, dams, and lakes are under threat due to deteriorating water quality, aging infrastructure, and governance failures. These challenges have resulted in high levels of non-revenue water, compromising both service delivery and environmental sustainability.
“The water sector is at a tipping point,” Dr. Thwala noted. “And the future depends on building a high-performance culture, which starts by skilling the youth across the entire water value chain.”
EWSETA’s commitment goes beyond technical skills, supporting SMMEs, encouraging innovation, and building resilience within communities.
As the Green Youth Indaba celebrates 10 years, the message is loud and clear: South Africa’s youth are not just the future—they are the solution. With institutional partners like LGSETA and EWSETA actively investing in real change, the green economy is no longer a distant ideal. It is here, and it is being shaped by the hands of passionate, skilled, and determined young people.
