Windhoek
Since its inception in 2007 on World Environmental Day, Project Shine, a partnership project between the Swakopmund Municipal Council, main sponsor Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL), Bannerman Resources, First National Bank (FNB Namibia) and Plastic Packaging, has continued to grow.
This year marks its ninth year of existence. Project Shine comprises of two environmental activities, namely a clean-up campaign and an awareness campaign.
The clean-up campaign was aimed at clearing the main road from Swakopmund to Arandis of litter, but was then extended to the beaches of Swakopmund to Henties Bay, the Swakop River mouth area and certain sections of the desert, east of Swakopmund.
The awareness campaign is focused on instilling mindfulness and understanding of waste management, as well as the risk involved in illegal dumping of waste along the roads and open spaces, and to put more focus on the importance of recycling the waste generated in municipal jurisdiction.
“I cannot emphasise enough the importance of keeping our environment clean. However, such efforts will not succeed without contributions from each and every one of us to make a positive change. It is therefore a joy to see that the project engages local communities, schools and the youth,” said Swakopmund Mayor Paulina Nashilundo at the launch of Project Shine 2016 last week.
She emphasised the role that every Namibian plays in keeping the environment clean. “As a Namibian citizen we all have a responsibility towards the cleanliness of our environment. My gratitude thus goes out to the organisations and individuals that are already making a difference. Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed.”
NBL reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to environmental preservation by recently increasing its support towards the 2016 Project Shine activities in the Erongo Region.
NBL depot manager of logistics Renel Sass said: “We’re proud to be associated with this initiative as it supports a clean and safe environment, something NBL is very passionate about. Through looking after our environment, we contribute to the health and safety of our people, which strongly supports our group purpose of ‘Creating a future, Enhancing life’ for all Namibians.”