South African coastal communities and environmental advocates are fighting against Shell and TotalEnergies' exploration off the country's coastal line today 17 May 2024. The communities and supporting organizations, including The Green Connection, will be in the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein to defend a landmark High Court judgment that set aside Shell's exploration right. The court criticized Shell, Impact Africa, and the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Gwede Mantashe for failing to take into account the environmental damage and the ocean's spiritual and cultural importance to coastal communities. Neville van Rooy, community coordinator for Green Connection elaborated more with the following…..INSERT [COASTAL] He says as the nation prepares for elections, the outcome of this legal battle will indicate the government's dedication to balancing environmental preservation, community rights, and economic development. The fight to protect South Africa's oceans and local livelihoods has never been more important.

Journalist: Tasha-Ree Kella
Email: tashakella13@gmail.com