Johannesburg: Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has urged the youth to actively participate in building the green economy of the future. The Minister addressed the closing ceremony of the 11th Green Youth Indaba held at Sun City in the North West on Friday.
According to South African Government News Agency, the two-day indaba aimed to raise awareness among the youth about opportunities within the green economy. Morolong highlighted the theme of this year's event, "From Youth Innovation to Green Enterprise and Economic Impact," as a call to action for transforming ideas into practical solutions and enterprises that generate jobs and economic value.
Morolong noted that participants at the indaba explored solutions in renewable energy, water security, and circular economy development. They also heard from a diverse range of speakers, including policymakers, investors, researchers, entrepreneurs, and young innovators already addressing real-world challenges. He emphasized that South Africa's challenge lies not in a lack of talent but in converting innovation into enterprise, attracting investment, and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Drawing parallels with the Milestones of Freedom campaign launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Morolong stressed that the story of freedom is intertwined with youth courage and action. The campaign commemorates significant anniversaries in South Africa's history and highlights the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future.
Morolong reiterated that the Green Youth Indaba has become a critical platform for youth development and the green economy, aligning with the Government of National Unity's priorities of fostering economic growth, job creation, and expanding opportunities. He underscored that youth development should be integrated into all aspects of economic transformation, with young people taking leadership roles as innovators, entrepreneurs, and active contributors to the economy.
Morolong encouraged young people to leverage government programs supporting enterprise development, skills development, and innovation, such as the National Youth Development Agency, the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency, and various educational institutions and innovation hubs.