PSI Molekane

The Paardeberg Sustainability Initiative (later known as PSI) was conceived in 2001, in recognition of threats to the biodiversity and natural resources of the Paardeberg, a privately-owned mountain in the Western Cape, South Africa. A primary threat is economic pressure common to many South African farmers and landowners. Additional and aggravating threats are global climate shifts, poverty, limited statehood, compromised capacity, education and implementation/enforcement of legislation. These challenges must be addressed to fulfill world guidelines (Agenda 21, SDG's, etc) for sustainable development. PSI is now a VAT- registered Non Profit company [NPC] and Public Benefit Organisation with Section 18A tax exempt status. It is aligned with several partners which share its vision, and in this sense can be described as collaborative facilitator. Through fundraising for various integrated projects, the PSI seeks to promote sustainability in the Paardeberg locally and also in broader Southern African contexts. The PSI encourages profitable businesses and corporates to contribute generously and tax-efficiently to a central fund that is managed by the Board of Directors of the PSI. These funds are either 'ring- fenced' for specific projects, or allocated to projects requiring support, through a process that seeks to fulfill both the agenda of the donor and the mandate of the PSI. The PSI houses both enterprises (SMME's) and projects. Projects depend on the PSI for funding, while the enterprises represent potential sources of funds/assets for the PSI. The PSI acts as an umbrella offering core functions of administration, marketing, HR management, accounting, etc to all projects and SMME's, based on an economy of scale. It is thus an ideal incubator to develop new businesses while minimizing risk. The vision of the PSI is to create a successful model of sustainable development, promoted by profitable enterprises and non-profitable projects, co-operating in