Fight against new mine goes global

ONLINE activist network Avaaz has cranked up the protest against Ibutho Coal developing its proposed coal mine on the fence line of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve.

The controversial application for Fuleni Anthracite Coal Mine recently came under heavy fire by environmentalists, including conservation custodian Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and community members as an ‘irreparably compromise’ of land on the southern border of the wilderness park.

Adding to concerns of noise, lights and pollution driving away animals and tourists from the Africa’s oldest game reserves, Avaaz believes the mine would further exacerbate the park’s already dwindling rhino count.

‘The world’s greatest rhino sanctuary is under threat,’ said Avaaz in its statement published online.

‘Plans are underway to build an open-cast coal mine just 40 metres from of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

‘Rangers fear it will destroy the wilderness and clear the way for poachers, who have butchered nearly 400 rhinos in South Africa this year alone, but we can stop it if we act now.’

Avaaz – meaning ‘voice’ in several European, Middle Eastern and Asian languages – now hopes that a united stand from wildlife lovers around the globe will persuade Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi from allowing the mine’s development.

‘Let’s make this mine publicly toxic.

‘Together, we can show the government that South Africans value their remaining natural heritage far more than coal.

‘If we reach 100,000 signatures this week, Avaaz will welcome the new Minister to work with a herd of cardboard rhinos.’

Last year, a campaign by Avaaz to stop lion bone trade in South Africa attracted a record high of more than a million signatures.

With a membership of 27 million members, the organisation campaigns in 15 languages on six continents with the help of thousands of volunteers.

‘We take action to ensure that the views and values of the world’s people inform the decisions that affect us all.

‘Now let’s bring the same people power to save a priceless patch of wilderness for future generations.’