Drafting of the proposed Environmental Alliance Constitution
Subsequent to the Overstrand Eco Indaba held on 28 March 2026, the Interim Steering Committee (“Steercom”) responsible for the drafting of a proposed Constitution for the Environmental Alliance kicked-off on 9 April.
They completed the drafting process on 21 May 2026, and followed this with proofreading and final formatting.
The focus throughout was to develop a “fit for purpose” constitution that:
- Clearly defines the purpose and governance framework of an Environmental Alliance;
- Is accessible and workable for members;
- Avoids unnecessary complexity or administrative burden; and
- Has a strong foundational framework while remaining flexible to support the future growth and evolution of an Environmental Alliance.
Key stakeholders were sent a short-list of preferred alliance names, and the preferred name will be voted in at the Alliance’s inaugural meeting to be held 27 June 27 2026.
The inclusion of ancestral references in the alliance’s name was investigated. Consultations were undertaken with academics as well as elders with direct ancestral lineage and cultural knowledge. The committee resolved not to pursue the use of ancestral references after careful thought was given to the risks of cultural misappropriation, unintended exclusion, and the potential for division between ancestral groupings. Instead, priority was given to a name that promotes broad, diverse, and inclusive membership.
Ann Bradshaw
Chair of Interim Steering Committee