Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tony Carnie
Published on 2024-02-25 20:35:56
The Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ) project, spearheaded by the state-owned Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA), was initially proposed as a massive R165-billion scheme with backing from a consortium of Chinese investors. The project aimed to establish an 8,000ha heavy industry hub between Musina and Makhado in the mineral-rich Soutpansberg region, featuring up to 20 new industrial projects in a tax- and duty-free zone. These projects included an iron and steel plant, ferrochrome plant, agro-chemical manufacturing plant, mineral beneficiation, a new Smart City, and a logistics cluster, with the goal of attracting foreign direct investment and creating thousands of jobs.
However, the MMSEZ project faced strong opposition from various groups due to concerns about its environmental impact, water consumption in a water-scarce region, greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, degradation of eco-tourism in Limpopo, and the violation of land rights of the Mulambwane community. Several civil society groups have brought three legal cases against the project, questioning its legality.
In March 2022, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) office in South Africa signed a non-binding memorandum of agreement (MOU) with the MMSEZ, pledging technical support and assistance to foreign investors. However, following objections from social and environmental groups Living Limpopo and Earthlife Africa, the UNDP’s support for the project is now set to be cancelled. A 29-page investigation report by the Social and Environmental Compliance Unit (SECU) recommended that the UNDP withdraw its backing, as no due diligence was conducted prior to signing the MOU.
The SECU report highlighted the risks associated with the MMSEZ project, including potential environmental damage, threats to water security, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of local communities. It also raised concerns about human rights violations against the Mulambwane community and the lack of proper consultation with stakeholders. The report recommended that the UNDP South African office should withdraw from the MOU and prepare a new agreement using the correct private sector template.
The MMSEZ project’s heavy reliance on water from the Limpopo River and its potential carbon emissions were key issues raised by critics. Concerns were also raised about the unresolved land claim of the Mulambwane community, who were forcibly evicted during apartheid and have since been unable to reclaim their land. The SECU emphasized the need for proper consultation with communities and stakeholders to ensure sustainable development that benefits all parties involved.
In conclusion, the MMSEZ project has sparked controversy and opposition due to its potential environmental and social impacts. The UNDP’s decision to cancel its support highlights the importance of rigorous due diligence and consultation in development projects to ensure that they are sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders. Moving forward, it will be crucial for the Limpopo government agency and other stakeholders to address these concerns and work towards a more inclusive and environmentally friendly development plan for the region.
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