AfriForum calls for investigation to protect Kariega against possible pollution

The alleged unregulated storage of large quantities of ore in the Kariega (Uitenhage) area has prompted AfriForum to intervene before widespread pollution occurs in the area. Over the past week, the civil rights organisation requested the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and the relevant government departments to launch an investigation into the legality of these activities and their impact on the environment and local infrastructure.

Large quantities of ore, suspected to be manganese, are allegedly being stored on a property in Kariega that is designated for agricultural purposes. The storage and handling of ore are regulated by a range of environmental and air quality requirements, and operators must therefore comply with the applicable legislation, particularly where the release of dust, possible soil or water pollution, and risks to surrounding communities are concerned.

AfriForum demanded answers from the Municipal Manager and the Director of Planning and Land Use regarding the activities in Kariega and whether all required land-use, municipal and environmental approvals had been obtained by the owners. The Metro confirmed that the land in question is zoned as agricultural land and is therefore not designated for this type of activity.

The civil rights organisation also expressed concern about the possible pollution that could occur if the ore is being stored unlawfully. While the fine dust released by the ore may pose health risks to the community, rainwater can also mix with it if it is not stored properly. This could, in turn, run off into stormwater systems, rivers or groundwater.

Documentation confirming that the property where the ore is allegedly being stored has undergone the necessary inspections and complied with the relevant requirements has been requested from the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, as well as the Department of Water and Sanitation.

“Without official confirmation that this ore is being stored responsibly and in accordance with the applicable legal requirements, serious questions remain about whether the community’s health and the wellbeing of the environment are truly being protected,” says Lambert de Klerk, AfriForum’s Manager of Environmental Affairs.

“Economic development is important, but it cannot take place in a manner that harms the community, the environment or public infrastructure. The legal requirements exist precisely to ensure that such activities are managed responsibly,” says Louis van der Vyver, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for the Eastern Cape.

AfriForum will take the necessary steps to ensure accountability and compliance with the law if possible irregularities relating to the storage of this ore come to light.