Dr Dion George Appointed as the New Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment in South Africa

Dr Dion George, the DA‘s constituency head in Knysna, has been appointed as South Africa‘s new Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment in a surprise announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The appointment was unveiled last night at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Previously serving as the DA’s shadow finance minister, Dr George’s transition to the environmental ministry comes as unexpected. His involvement in addressing environmental issues in Knysna, particularly related to waste removal and water quality, has been noteworthy.

As the head of the DA constituency in Knysna, Dion George has played a key role in holding the Knysna municipality accountable for service delivery failures impacting the Knysna Lagoon, resulting in charges being laid against the municipality.

In his statement to the Knysna Plett Herald on the night of the announcement, George expressed enthusiasm about the new portfolio, emphasizing the significant scope it offers for improving resource management and driving economic growth.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment oversees several critical areas of South Africa’s economy, including national parks, forestry, natural resources, marine resources, and the just energy transition. Dr George believes the role presents a vast opportunity for responsible resource stewardship and job creation.

With this new position, Dr Dion George is poised to lead initiatives that will not only strengthen environmental conservation efforts but also contribute to the country’s economic transformation towards a more sustainable, green economy.