In the culturally rich and biodiverse region of Zululand, a pressing issue has emerged that demands our attention – the impact of the Tendele’s coal mining operation and its proposed expansion. While mining projects offer the promise of economic growth and job creation for the community, the effects of these extractive practices have taken a toll on the people of Zululand, and the burden has fallen disproportionately on the women of this community.
For many women in Zululand, the most immediate effect of Tendele Mining has been displacement. Families were forced to relocate their cattle, kraals and in some cases graves to make room for the open cast mining operation. [1]
The environmental degradation from Tendele’s activities include soil erosion and noise pollution from blasting, water pollution from the operation’s runoff and air quality degradation from open pit mining and coal storage. Contaminated water sources and degraded land compromise the people’s ability to farm, and provide for their families. Women bear the brunt of the health challenges as they are not only more likely to pick up chronic conditions and illness from these circumstances, but they are also tasked with the responsibility of taking care of sick and affected family members.
Sign the petition to end Tendele’s destructive coal operations
ADD YOUR VOICEThe displacement caused by Tendele’s operations disrupts not just the physical environment but also the social and cultural fabric of the Zululand community. Women, as custodians of cultural traditions and community cohesion, face the challenge of maintaining their cultural practices in the face of this disruption. The erosion of traditional ways of life and community structures has contributed to the social stress and trauma this community has experienced.
Women have led the charge in opposing the injustices played out by Tendele’s Mining operation. Fikile Ntshangase, familiarly known as Mam Fikile, was a leading voice in the objection of the expansion of Tendele’s operation. As one of the stalwart leaders opposing the project, Mam Fikile often spoke out publicly of the dangers of coal mining and the unethical tactics employed by Tendele and those who benefited financially from the operation to divide and incite violence in the community. On the 22nd of October 2020 at 18:30, Mam Fikile was senselessly gunned down in her home. To date no one has been charged with her murder. [2]
Many activists like Mam Fikile have experienced threats, intimidation and acts of violence by those who were in favour of the mining operation. Despite these challenges, the women of Zululand have remained steadfast in their opposition and continue to demonstrate resilience. Many still remain vocal advocates for their rights, fighting to mitigate the negative impacts of mining and to ensure that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Their advocacy efforts have brought greater attention to the issues and have pressured both Tendele and the government to address their concerns.
The plight of Zululand’s women underscores the broader issue of how extractive industries can devastate local communities, and how the burden tends to fall on marginalised groups. While the obstacles are many, the resilience and activism of these women offer hope. Their efforts highlight the urgent need for inclusive, rights-respecting, and environmentally sustainable approaches to development. As the debate continues, it is crucial to amplify the voices of those most impacted, and to honour the memories of those who have been lost so far – please sign the petition to support De-Coal-onising Zululand.
Sign the petition to end Tendele’s destructive coal operations
ADD YOUR VOICESources:
[1] Community suffers ‘continuous traumatic stress disorder’ from open-cast mining
[2] MAM FIKILE NTSHANGASE Who did not bow to pressure