Activists Campaign Against Mining on South Africa's Coast

Martinus Fredericks, a tribal chief of the !Ama people, and activist Mike Schlebach are leading a campaign to protect South Africa's 550km West Coast from harmful mining practices, advocating for environmental sustainability and community rights. Fredericks, who discovered his heritage and became the leader of the !Ama tribe, highlights the historical exclusion faced by his people, while Schlebach founded the nonprofit Protect the West Coast to address the environmental damage caused by mining. Despite their efforts, the region is still threatened by poorly regulated mining activities, although they have achieved some legal victories and garnered public support. In Newfoundland, Barbara Barter is working to establish a national marine conservation area around Burgeo to protect critical marine life and ecosystems, which she believes could also help revitalize local communities. Both initiatives emphasize the importance of preserving unique coastal environments against industrial exploitation. Their stories reflect a broader movement toward environmental activism and community engagement in the face of economic pressures.