Sangomas against the E36m Umbane project'

MALKERNS – Traditional healers have expressed their objection of the proposed human resettlement project.

This is because the land earmarked for the project is their source for traditional medicine. Big Game Parks’ Technical Services Manager Anthony Borrel said sangomas had revealed to them that they were against the project. This was heard during the Umbane project’s public hearing yesterday.
While citing the Flora Protection Act, which lists specific plants as protected, Borrel said if the project continued tradition healers were likely to lose their source of traditional medicine.
“Sangomas have revealed that from that area, they collect about 60 different plant species, which are used for traditional medicine.

“If the project progresses, it will certainly disturb nature,” he said.
In his objections, Borrel also cited other legislations such as the Environment Management Act and the National Biodiversity Conservation.
He observed that the project would bring developments such as the construction of bridges to connect the township with other places.

These developments, he noted, would certainly disturb nature conservation as there was a likelihood of an increase in soil erosion. Before placing their objections, Borrel highlighted that they sought expert advice and with the help of Ecologist Kate Brown, they managed to collect valid points on why the project should not be carried out.

Despite several objections of the proposed E36 million township development project, Umbane believe they have a bundle of rights to the disputed land.

Attorney Perry said Umbane had the right to use the land as per their wish.
He said they could use it to generate revenue or even lease it out without being frustrated.

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