President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed members of the inaugural Presidential Climate Change Coordinating Commission with effect from 17 December 2020.
In a statement on Thursday, the Presidency said the establishment of the commission emanates from the Presidential Jobs Summit held in October 2018 when social partners agreed that a statutory body be formed to coordinate and oversee the just transition towards a low-carbon, inclusive, climate change resilient economy and society.
“The commission is tasked with advising on South Africa’s climate change response. This includes mitigation and adaptation to climate change and its associated impacts. It will furthermore provide independent monitoring and review of South Africa’s progress in meeting its emissions reduction and adaptation goals,” read the statement.
Under the commission’s terms of reference, it will advise on and facilitate a common understanding of a just transition, cognisant of the socio-economic, environmental and technological implications of climate change. This covers adaptation, mitigation as well as means of implementation.
“It will also provide a platform for the engagement of key stakeholders on the National Employment Vulnerability Assessment (NEVA) and Sector Job Resilient Plans (SJRPs) and ensure reporting of progress towards the implementation of the Sector Job Resilient Plans,” read the statement.
Chaired by the President, the commission comprises representatives from government departments and state entities, business organisations, labour, academia, civil society, research institutions and traditional leadership.
The newly appointed members of the Presidential Climate Change Coordinating Commission are:
1. Mr Valli Moosa (Deputy Chair)
2. Ms Ayakha Melithafa
3. Dr Brian Mantlana
4. Ms Mandy Rambaros
5. Ms Joanne Bate
6. Mr Dhesigen Naidoo
7. Ms Mapaseka Lukhele
8. Ms Shamini Harrington
9. Ms Princess Tsakani Nkambule
10. Mr Setlakalane Molepo
11. Ms Joanne Yawitch
12. Mbulaheni Mbodi
13. Ms Lebogang Mulaisi
14. Mr Jacques Hugo
15. Mr Mac Chavalala
16. Mr Bongani Mwale
17. Ms Louise Naude
18. Mr Bobby Peek
19. Mr Happy Khambule
20. Mr Bantu Holomisa
21. Ms Melissa Fourie
22. Ms Makoma Lekalakala
The Presidency said the process of receiving nominations for and making appointments of additional members is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.
