Madjadji Primary School Wins R35,000 in Wetlands Awareness Competition

Madjadji Primary School in Selwane village, Phalaborwa, secured second place and a cash prize of R35,000 at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and Environment competition held at Impala Hall in Phalaborwa.

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The competition focused on the importance of wetlands, their preservation, the challenges they face, and ways to protect them.

School principal Mokgalaka Mary highlighted the critical role of wetlands, stating, “People are building houses and roads where wetlands should be, leading to a water crisis in communities. If we preserve wetlands, we will have water forever.”

She also emphasised the impact on wildlife, saying, “Farming in wetland areas threatens animals that depend on water, like frogs and birds that build nests, and fish that rely on these habitats.”

Mary further explained the benefits of different wetland types, noting that “reed-filled wetlands provide materials for roofing huts, making traditional brooms, and crafting trays.”

The school’s achievement highlights the importance of environmental education and the need for wetland conservation.