The final Spatial Development Framework for the uMfolozi Municipality has been released. The uMfolozi Municipality stretches from the southern borders of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park to the coast. Map 18 on mining areas shows the area identified for coal mining running along the southern border of the HIP. What is especially problematic is this paragraph from page 102 of … [Read more...]
Minister Mantashe a no show at KZN mining discussions
The DMR Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has failed to honour his commitment to visit the KwaZulu-Natal province today to discuss the Mining Charter. Members of the community gathered from Newcastle area (Normandien, Kliprand Farm and Uitkomst communities) and Somkhele, where Petmin’s coal mine is being challenged by local community people. More than 70 people travelled to … [Read more...]
The rhino killing fields of KwaZulu-Natal
Conservationists warned that the lifting of the ban on the South African domestic trade in rhino horn would spell an all out war on South Africa's remaining rhino. This certainly seems evident after the discovery of two more rhino carcasses this week. This gruesome find brings the total number of rhino poached in a five month period to the highest ever recorded in the … [Read more...]
Concerns abound over amended Fuleni coal mine application
Is it a good idea to develop an anthracite coal mine right on the boundary of the world-renowned Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park? WESSA is deeply concerned about the renewed attempt by Ibutho Coal to do so. The proposed Fuleni mine has the potential to severely and irreversibly impact this flagship nature reserve as well as the communities of the Fuleni-Umhlana area. WESSA … [Read more...]
