Civil society holds a lot of power, and if we join hands and harness that power, great things can happen. 

This was clearly demonstrated again earlier this month when the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) refused environmental authorisations for the Karpowership gas-to-power ships planned for three of South Africa’s biggest ports. But this wouldn’t have happened without the pressure applied by civil organisations. Read more here. 

In another good development, OUTA and Water Shortage SA was invited to submit our findings and recommendations on the issue of an independent water regulator to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation. We have been campaigning for the establishment of an Independent Water Regulator for the last two years, and it seems that Parliament is finally starting to see the benefit in this. Read more here. 

Both these stories show that the constant pushback by civil society makes a difference. Let’s keep up the pressure, and make sure the voice of reason is being heard, loud and clear.