In commemoration of Mandela Day,NutriDay’s Tubs2Classrooms Project continues to yield a positive impact by upcycling 1
million yoghurt tubs into lightweight, durable bricks. Just as it did in 2023, this initiative
not only reduced waste going to landfills but also built another library – this time for
Morojaneng Primary School in Katlehong. This collaborative effort involving Danone,
Envirolite Concrete, DP World/Motus Trust, and Pick n Pay School Club demonstrates how
environmental sustainability can contribute to social sustainability.
“Good health is a foundation for future progress, but a healthy body needs to be
mentally stimulated too. The library, stocked with books and resources, provides an
invaluable learning opportunity for children,” says Leanne Kiezer, Head of Corporate
Affairs at Danone South Africa
Additionally, Danone & Hope SA conducted health screenings for the community during
the day to assess their blood sugar and pressure and conducted eye tests.
“It’s encouraging to witness the positive change brought about by such partnerships
inspired by Danone’s Impact Journey and we are extremely grateful that we have the
opportunity to make such a fundamental difference in the South African community in
areas where it matters most,” continues Kiezer.
Closing SA’s reading and health gap
81% of Grade 4 South African children are unable to read for meaning. This speaks
volumes to the historic challenges within the education sector and it is heartening to see
this collaboration amongst the private sectors.
Partnerships with like-minded organisations brought the library to life. The DP
World/Motus Trust furnished and stocked the library with books and resources and
employed the services of a librarian to ensure the integration of reading programmes
into the daily curriculum of the learners. Pick n Pay School Club activated the education
and tub collection programme, teaching learners the potential of a yoghurt tub if it is
recycled. Collectively, the programme is improving our children’s ability to read while
helping to raise recycling advocates.
“This is the 80 th library to be produced by DP World/Motus Trust. Our partnership with
Danone Southern Africa has introduced the exciting new element of recycling and
environmental sustainability into our journey to improve literacy levels across South
Africa,” says Mr Veli Mokoena, proud Trustee of DP World/Motus Trust.
“Today is a great day – not only for our students but also for the community around us.
The library represents a hub of knowledge, creativity, and imagination. It is a space
where minds will expand, ideas will flourish, and dreams will take shape. The Hope SA
mobile clinic will help raise health awareness for many of our community members,”
adds Mr Douglas Chirwa Principal at Morojaneng Primary School.
Danone Southern Africa nurtures lasting social impact in communities
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