8 Aug: Embassy of Finland Visit

Overview:

The Finnish Ambassador to South Africa visited Genadendal to highlight successful community initiatives

The meeting started in Schiefer Hall, Genadendal and, after a walking tour through the Genadendal precinct, concluded with canapés under the old pear tree in the Genadendal Mission gardens.

Attendees:

Dr.

Isaac Balie⁠

, Genadendal Mission Museum Curator

⁠

Judith Balie⁠

, Genadendal Mission Museum Manager

⁠

Tsakane Bok⁠

, Coordinator: Local Development Cooperation Projects,

Finnish Embassy⁠

⁠

Michael Haupt⁠

Transition Collective⁠

⁠

Anne Lammila⁠

, Ambassador,

Finnish Embassy⁠

⁠

Nobungcwele Mbem⁠

EDP⁠

⁠

Johan Olivier⁠

Ranyaka⁠

⁠

Keith Radmore, Valley of Six

A number of valley residents representing the areas of development identified by Ranyaka

Press Release

Finnish Ambassador Visits Genadendal to Highlight Successful Community Initiatives

On August 8th, 2024, the Finnish Ambassador to South Africa visited the historic town of Genadendal to see first-hand the impact of Finland's development cooperation in the region. The Ambassador was accompanied by representatives from Ranyaka, a social enterprise focused on community transformation, and the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP).

The day began with a walkthrough highlighting the various community-led initiatives underway in the Genadendal Valley, facilitated by Judith Balie of the Genadendal Museum.

"It's inspiring to see how the people of Genadendal have come together to address the needs of their community," said the Finnish Ambassador, Anne Lammila. "Finland is proud to have played a role in these grassroots initiatives through our development cooperation."

The group then embarked on a walking tour of the historic Moravian precinct in Genadendal, which dates back to 1738 and was once the largest settlement in the colony after Cape Town. Nobungcwele Mbem of the WCEDP emphasised the significance of reviving this precinct as a hub of activity, just as it was centuries ago.

"The people of Genadendal have a deep connection to their history and a clear vision for the future," said Mbem. "With the support of partners like Finland, we can help realise that vision and create new opportunities for economic and social development."

The morning concluded with a gathering under the old pear tree, where traditional South African canapés were served accompanied by a lively brass band. Keith Radmore of the Greyton Rotary Club said, "It was a joyous celebration of the community's resilience and the power of international cooperation to drive positive change."

The Finnish Ambassador's visit underscores the longstanding relationship between Finland and South Africa, which has evolved from supporting the anti-apartheid movement to now focusing on development cooperation aimed at building a more inclusive and equitable society.

About Ranyaka Ranyaka is a social enterprise focused on community transformation, working alongside local residents to identify and implement sustainable solutions to pressing challenges.

About the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP) The WCEDP is a public benefit collaborative that works to foster economic development and job creation in the Western Cape province of South Africa.

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