PRESS RELEASE - Johannesburg 6th October, 2009

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Clinton Global Initiative recognises SA Ecopreneurs

Good news for environment & poverty in Gauteng

Johannesburg 6th October, 2009

Water Environment Transformation (Wet-Africa.org) and The SOUL Foundation have been identified by the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) for presenting an exemplary model for global transformation. Wet-Africa was one of a few project commitments from around the world honoured in this way. Kim Kieser, CEO Founder of Wet-Africa who accepted the award said she was delighted for the recognition and the quality of connections made with political and business leaders from around the world. “We have exceeded our expectations and are looking to establish several global WET programs and not just platforms as initially anticipated”

The other 3 Ecopreneurs from Wet-Africa to be recognised were Greg Steenveld, Margie Kolver and Brylyne Chitsunge. Wet-Africa.org is a Johannesburg-based NGO specialising in watercourse rehabilitation that achieves sustainably clean waterways and poverty alleviation.

WET-Africa's commitment to CGI is to rehabilitate 67km (42 miles) of the polluted Jukskei river in Johannesburg, Gauteng. The Catchment area houses over 5 million people of which at least 43% are unemployed. The program includes cleaning and dredging the watercourse, establishing integrated waste management systems and recycling, forestation, eco-agriculture and return of pollinators, adventure operators, educational programs and eco-tourism. The program creates multiple income streams through the sale of recyclable material, carbon credits, eco markets and entry fees or membership to the green corridor. The commitment will create 500 Green jobs, 9 Eco-Enterprises and 90 Eco-preneurs.

In addition, WET-Africa has committed to establishing platforms in other countries, a Green Market Stock Exchange, a plan for a WET innovation training center and sustainable farm. The total cost of this project is $20 Million which includes current partnerships, contributions and development costs that include establishing global collaborations open to Ashoka Fellows, ELP Alumni and other outstanding innovators. The SOUL Foundation NGO established Wet-Africa in 2008 to implement SOUL's transformation model and collaboration programme. Further information from info@wet-africa.org - 073-656-2555