Indigenous communities across the globe have long been the guardians of their ancestral territories, fostering a deep connection with the land and its resources. Yet, the relentless pursuit of minerals, fossil fuels, and other heavy industrial development has posed a significant threat to their way of life, cultural heritage, and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit. The Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ) in Limpopo, South Africa, is the perfect example of the confluence of neocolonial extractivism, conflict of interest in local political decision making, and indigenous communities fighting to preserve their land and culture.
The Limpopo provincial government, supported by the national department of trade, industry, and competition, has granted two huge tracts of land of several thousand hectares each “Special Economic Zone” status. Intended for mining, petrochemicals, and other heavy industrial development.
We recently did a film for Earthlife Africa, who are tirelessly campaigning against this project to go ahead. Earthlife Africa has a mission that seeks a better life for all people without exploiting anyone or degrading their environment - and we were grateful to collaborate with them on this film.
Watch the full film here:
During this film, we spoke to loud voices, brave activists who have emerged as staunch defenders of indigenous land, working tirelessly to prevent the developments in The Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone. We spoke to Mphatheleni Makaulule who is an active campaigner, organiser of grassroots movements, and spokesperson. She has a deep passion for the culture and traditions of her people and has watched the fast attrition of her culture as westernisation and modernisation have engulfed her community.
“Only when the last tree has been chopped down, the last river got dry, is when human being will know that money cannot be eaten” -Mphatheleni Makaulule
Mphatheleni reminds us of the utmost importance of having indigenous land. As it represents the culmination of centuries of cultural and spiritual connection to the earth. It serves as a physical embodiment of indigenous identity, traditions, and self-determination.
Her role in defending indigenous land cannot be overstated, as she represents a safeguard not only the tangible resources but also the intangible heritage and knowledge embedded in the land, ensuring the continuity of indigenous cultures and the preservation of our shared human diversity.
The protection of indigenous land requires the active involvement of all of us, as it is an interconnected issue that affects us all. By educating ourselves about the struggles faced by indigenous communities, individuals can challenge narratives, advocate for policies that respect land rights, and promote cultural preservation. Supporting indigenous-led organisations financially or through volunteer work further strengthens the collective efforts towards sustainable land management and a more just and equitable society.
This story highlights the individuals that have started contributing to achieving this change by getting involved and we hope that their willingness inspires the will within you. Be sure to follow EarthLife Africa and their next steps here and see how you can get involved.
Cinematography & Photography by one of most trusted FreeWilder’s - Justin Sullivan.
Directed & Edited by ReWild Creative Director - Megan May Nelson.
News from ReWild Africa:
ReWild creative director, Alessandra, and freelance cinematographer, Tim Van Vuuren have just embarked on an incredibly exciting production with PowerShift Africa - from Uganda, Senegal, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Kenya. ‘Don’t Gas Africa’ is an empowering documentary that confronts the urgent need for Africa to transition from fossil fuel-based energy to a renewable energy future. As the climate emergency escalates, the destiny of the continent hinges on the decisions that we make now. Watch this space!
If you’d like to join our freelancer ecosystem to potentially get involved in ReWild productions, sign up here.