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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for SARWatch
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TZID:Africa/Johannesburg
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DTSTART:20230101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260424T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260426T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T090556Z
CREATED:20260421T090556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T090556Z
UID:7212-1777017600-1777222800@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:The African Extractivism & the Green Transition (AEGT) Workshop
DESCRIPTION:The African Extractivism & the Green Transition (AEGT) project held its mid-project workshop from 24 to 26 March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dar es Salaam\, Tanzania. The three-day workshop convened the project’s researchers\, research assistants\, and invited stakeholders to review progress across the eight research studies underway\, share emerging findings\, and plan for publication and knowledge mobilisation. \nThe workshop was structured around sequential presentations of individual research studies\, two facilitated brainstorming sessions on cross-cutting themes\, and forward-looking sessions on data management\, stakeholder engagement\, and project governance. An evening reception hosted by the Canadian High Commission in Tanzania and a showcase event at the University of Dar es Salaam hosted by the Institute for Resource Assessment provided additional networking opportunities. \nA dedicated session on 26 March featured a presentation and live demonstration of the African Critical Minerals Atlas (ACMA) by the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW). The session was originally programmed as an AMAP presentation; the updated title reflects the launch of the broader ACMA platform\, of which AMAP is a component. \nACMA is both a specialised knowledge-building tool and a policy and accountability instrument. Its core objectives are to: \n\n\nConsolidate and visualise critical minerals information in an accessible\, interactive format; \n\n\nSupport public accountability and evidence-based advocacy; \n\n\nEnable independent monitoring of supply chains\, ESG performance\, and company/government commitments; \n\n\nStrengthen civil society capacity to assess whether critical minerals development is contributing to equitable industrialisation\, electrification\, and community development outcomes; \n\n\nServe as shared research infrastructure for academics\, civil society\, policymakers\, and communities. \n\n\nAt its pilot phase\, the Atlas covers six countries and six mining operations across key critical energy transition minerals (CETMs)\, including copper\, cobalt\, lithium\, graphite\, manganese\, and PGMs. The Atlas is built on ArcGIS Experience Builder and is designed to be scalable and continuously updated. \nAccess the Atlas here:
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/the-african-extractivism-the-green-transition-aegt-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ATLASShowcase.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260423T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260423T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T090133Z
CREATED:20260421T090027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T090133Z
UID:7209-1776931200-1776963600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:SARW Participation in “Women in Mining: Opportunities and Safety” – BBC Media Action & ZNBC Forum
DESCRIPTION:The Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) participated in a televised panel discussion organized by BBC Media Action in partnership with ZNBC\, titled “Women in Mining: Opportunities and Safety.” The event was held on 23rd March 2026 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka and brought together key stakeholders from government\, civil society\, and the private sector. \nThe discussion formed part of The Forum\, a public television platform designed to stimulate dialogue on critical national issues. It explored barriers to women’s participation in the mining sector\, while also examining opportunities for inclusion and empowerment. Key thematic areas included access to mining opportunities\, the reasons behind low female participation\, and the safety and welfare of women in mining environments. Additional focus was placed on environmental and public health concerns\, land dispossession\, and the broader socio-economic impacts of mining activities on women. \nSARW was represented by Edward Lange\, Senior Programmes Officer\, who contributed to the debate as part of Panel B. In his intervention\, he highlighted the structural and policy-related challenges limiting women’s equitable participation in the extractive sector. He also emphasized the need for stronger safeguards to address land rights\, environmental protection\, and occupational safety\, particularly for women in mining communities. \nThe forum provided an important platform for multi-stakeholder engagement and reaffirmed SARW’s commitment to advocating for gender-responsive policies and inclusive governance in the mining sector.
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/sarw-participation-in-women-in-mining-opportunities-and-safety-bbc-media-action-znbc-forum/
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WomenInMiningForum.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260325T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260326T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T091139Z
CREATED:20260421T091139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T091139Z
UID:7216-1774425600-1774544400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:High-Level Expert Roundtable On Critical Minerals & Just Energy Transition Diplomacy
DESCRIPTION:(Pictured\, Mama Graça Michel and the SARW team. Left to Right: Davie Malungisa\, Monica Mbugua\, Dr. Claude Kabemba\, Mama Graça Michel\, Gerson Mendes\, Sandra Sitole\, Georges Mbuyu) \nBetween the 25th and 26th of March\, SARW hosted the Expert High-Level Roundtable on Critical Minerals & Just Energy Transition Diplomacy\, bringing together policymakers\, experts\, civil society leaders\, and development partners to explore how Africa can strengthen its voice in global minerals governance and climate diplomacy while advancing equitable resource-based industrialisation. \nFollowing two days of high-level deliberations in Magaliesberg\, South Africa\, leaders from civil society\, business\, academia\, diplomacy\, and African institutions issued a bold call: the African Union must declare Green Minerals a continental emergency. \nThis is not just a statement—it is a shift in strategy. \nThe gathering put forward a unified agenda to: \n\nEstablish an African Green Minerals Producers’ Coalition under the AU\, led by a Heads of State Steering Committee.\nLaunch a High-Level Panel of eminent persons on Green Minerals to drive Green Minerals diplomacy across national\, regional\, continental\, and global levels.\nSet up a Technical Support Committee to support the High-Level panel\n\nThe meeting called on African countries to: \n\nMove decisively from raw material exports to value addition\, industrialisation\, and regional value chains on African soil.\nStrengthen geological data systems\, research\, skills development\, and South–South technology and innovation partnerships.\n\nWhat makes this different? Immediate action. \nConcrete\, time-bound commitments have already been agreed— Grounded in the principle of One Voice\, One Strategy. \nThis initiative is about repositioning Africa—not as a supplier at the margins—but as a central actor in the global green minerals value chain and energy transition. \nWe were pleased to have Mama Graça Michel deliver the keynote address at the High-Level Roundtable\, leaving every participant inspired and charged with determination to produce solutions to the emergency facing Africa. \nRead the Communique released following the meeting on our home page: www.sarwatch.co.za
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/high-level-expert-roundtable-on-critical-minerals-just-energy-transition-diplomacy/
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Inception and Engagement meeting,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260316T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260317T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T085650Z
CREATED:20260421T084037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T085650Z
UID:7206-1773648000-1773766800@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Oil\, Gas and Energy Transition Dialogue & Workshop
DESCRIPTION:On 16 and 17 March 2026\, the Southern African Resource Watch (SARW) and its partner the Institute for Multi-party Democracy (IMD) convened a regional meeting for civil society\, parliamentarians\, climate justice organisations\, and think tanks from hydrocarbon-producing countries in Southern and Eastern Africa—including Mozambique\, Angola\, Namibia\, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)\, South Africa\, and Kenya in Cape Town\, South Africa. \nThe focus of the policy dialogue was to identify priority actions for a just and inclusive energy transition\, with particular attention to the oil and gas sector\, while shaping advocacy and policy strategies toward COP31 (Turkey) and COP32 (Ethiopia)\, key global negotiation platforms on climate action\, energy transition and the implementation of the Paris Agreement. \nAs global momentum builds to tackle the climate crisis\, oil and gas producing countries in Africa face the twin challenge of transitioning away from fossil fuels while promoting equitable development and ensuring energy access for all. The continent’s path is complicated by deep economic reliance on oil and gas revenues\, complex socio-political landscapes\, and limited avenues for meaningful community and civil society engagement. For many African nations\, oil and gas remain pivotal to national development strategies\, public revenue and international influence. Despite mounting global pressure to decarbonise in line with frameworks such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement\, most of these countries are expanding fossil fuel projects. While governments in the Global North accelerate renewable energy transitions\, many African leaders advocate for “energy sovereignty\,” emphasising the use of gas as a transition fuel and asserting the continent’s right to industrialise on its own terms. \nThis creates a core tension: \n\nDoes oil and gas development enable Africa’s structural transformation and fund renewable expansion?\nOr does it lock in extractive dependency\, stranded assets\, debt\, and climate vulnerability?\n\n  \nRead more about the event in our March Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/sarwatch/march-newsletter
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/oil-gas-and-energy-transition-dialogue-workshop/
LOCATION:Cape Town\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oil-Gas-and-Energy-Transition.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260225T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260226T170000
DTSTAMP:20260420T093039Z
CREATED:20260420T093039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T093039Z
UID:7201-1772006400-1772125200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance Continental Launch
DESCRIPTION:The Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance – Africa (PCMA)\, a grassroots continental initiative facilitated by the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW)\, convened its inaugural Continental Strategy Planning Workshop and Official Launch on 25-26 February 2026 in Harare\, Zimbabwe. This landmark gathering took place at a critical moment as Africa’s critical minerals are at the centre of global geopolitical competition\, climate policy\, and energy transition pathways. While these minerals are essential for global decarbonisation\, many African communities continue to face poverty and exclusion from centuries of mining and general resource extractivism\, plunder\, displacement\, labour exploitation\, and environmental harm. \nThe workshop provided a structured\, participatory space to craft a three-year continental strategy that strengthens people-centred resource governance\, equitable industrialisation\, electrification\, and environmental justice\, led by frontline communities\, indigenous people\, faith-based\, disability rights advocates and workers. Guided by the central question – How can PAMOJA CMA safeguard the rights and dignity of African people while advancing just transitions and resource-based industrialisation? – the convening prioritised social movement approaches that strengthen cross-sector people-to-people solidarity and practical campaign design. \nThe workshop brought together grassroots activists\, Indigenous leaders\, trade unions\, faith-based organizations\, women’s and youth movements\, disability rights advocates\, and policy experts from across the continent. Through interactive panels\, breakout sessions\, participatory mapping\, and strategy labs\, participants collaboratively developed a continental action agenda. The Alliance was formally launched at the close of Day Two\, on Thursday\, 26 February\, accompanied by a media briefing and a public declaration. \nRead the full breakdown here: https://mailchi.mp/sarwatch/february-newsletter-18241701
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/pamoja-critical-minerals-alliance-continental-launch/
LOCATION:Harare\, Zimbabwe
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Inception and Engagement meeting,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260210T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260210T170000
DTSTAMP:20260420T085837Z
CREATED:20260420T085538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T085837Z
UID:7189-1770710400-1770742800@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:From Extraction to Empowerment: Community Foundations and Philanthropy as Vehicles for Equitable Mining and Just Transitions
DESCRIPTION:On 10 February 2026\, the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) in partnership with civil society organizations convened practitioners\, academics\, civil society actors\, and community representatives to interrogate whether community philanthropy and community foundations can offer a viable mechanism for equitable benefit-sharing\, sustainability\, and justice in mining-affected communities\, particularly in the context of just energy transitions. \nThe discussion was grounded in the recognition that extractivism has not fundamentally changed\, even as minerals are increasingly framed as inputs for the green and just energy transition. While the mineral types may differ\, communities continue to experience land dispossession\, environmental degradation\, health impacts\, livelihood loss\, and weak benefit-sharing. \nParticipants acknowledged that although mining companies and governments often claim communities benefit through employment\, infrastructure\, and corporate social investment (CSI)\, communities consistently report exclusion from decision-making and dissatisfaction with outcomes. Benefits are frequently short-term\, project-based\, externally designed\, and unsustainable once mining operations scale down or exit. \nA central critique was that existing benefit-sharing mechanisms—CSR projects\, social labour plans\, community trusts\, and compensation schemes—are largely top-down\, lack transparency\, and are often controlled either by companies or government intermediaries rather than communities themselves.
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/from-extraction-to-empowerment-community-foundations-and-philanthropy-as-vehicles-for-equitable-mining-and-just-transitions/
LOCATION:Cape Town\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260209T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260212T170000
DTSTAMP:20260420T092500Z
CREATED:20260420T092500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T092500Z
UID:7198-1770624000-1770915600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:AMI 2026
DESCRIPTION:Every February\, two mining conversations happen in Cape Town simultaneously. A few kilometres apart\, they could not be more different. \nInside the Cape Town International Convention Centre\, the Mining Indaba convenes financiers\, mining executives and government ministers negotiating the terms under which Africa’s mineral wealth will be extracted. Outside it\, at St George’s Cathedral\, the Alternative Mining Indaba asks the question the Convention Centre never does: on whose terms\, and for whose benefit? \n“Alternative Stories of Mining — United in Solidarity with Mining-Affected Communities across the Continent.”\nIt was a deliberate counter-positioning. SARW arrived not with reports — but with infrastructure. \nSARW Delegation\nThe delegation was led by Monica Mbugua\, who also served on the AMI Steering Committee and guided SARW’s pavilion strategy through to the final Communiqué drafting and Memorandum handover at the CTICC. \nTheir roles were not parallel — they were sequential: Day 1 evidence. Day 2 tools and mobilisation. Day 3 consolidated demands. \nTo read about the full three days\, access our February Newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/sarwatch/february-newsletter-18241701
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/ami-2026/
LOCATION:Cape Town\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AMI2026JPG-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260127T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260128T170000
DTSTAMP:20260420T085957Z
CREATED:20260420T082314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T085957Z
UID:7185-1769500800-1769619600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Post-COP30 Convening
DESCRIPTION:On the 27th-28th January 2026\, the Post-COP30 Hosted by Southern Africa Trust brought together civil society organizations\, researchers\, advocates\, and community representatives from across Southern Africa (Malawi\, Lesotho\, Mozambique\, Zambia\, Zimbabwe and South Africa) to reflect on global climate developments and strengthen a coordinated regional climate justice agenda. Over two days in Johannesburg at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sandton\, participants engaged in robust discussions that moved from structural diagnosis (Day One) to actionable strategy development (Day Two). The convening examined whether current energy transition and climate governance frameworks are meaningfully addressing inequality\, fiscal constraints\, extractive opacity\, and systemic exclusion in the region.
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/post-cop30-convening-2/
LOCATION:Radisson Blu Hotel\, Corner Rivonia Road & Daisy Street Sandton\, Johannesburg\, 2196\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2196\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Capacity Building,Information sharing and Advocacy,Strategic Engagement on Climate
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20251029T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20251031T170000
DTSTAMP:20260520T085828Z
CREATED:20250702T104241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T085828Z
UID:5993-1761724800-1761930000@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:9th Edition: DRC Alternative Mining Indaba
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URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/drc-alternative-mining-indaba/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250913
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250915
DTSTAMP:20250805T072742Z
CREATED:20250623T131012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250805T072742Z
UID:5964-1757721600-1757894399@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Community Training on Fair Tax and Trade
DESCRIPTION:The Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) and the Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) are organizing a two-day workshop. This initiative aims to educate community members—especially women and youth—in Carolina\, Sekhukhune\, Grotvlei\, Ermelo\, and Mokopane on fair tax and trade practices. By building grassroots advocacy capacity\, the training seeks to enable these communities to influence policy discussions\, ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to their sustainable development. 
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/community-training-on-fair-tax-and-trade/
CATEGORIES:Training and Documentary production
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250729
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250801
DTSTAMP:20250804T144152Z
CREATED:20250623T130835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250804T144152Z
UID:5966-1753747200-1754006399@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Parliamentary Leadership: The Energy Transition and the Oil and Gas Economy in SADC Maputo\, Mozambique
DESCRIPTION:From the 29th – 30th July\, SARW\, in partnership the National Assembly of Mozambique\, IMD and SADC Parliamentary Forum co-hosted the “Parliamentary Leadership: Energy Transition and SADC’s Oil and Gas Economy” regional dialogue in Maputo on oil\, gas\, and the energy transition. \nSpeakers framed the dialogue as a timely and strategic regional initiative aimed at deepening the role of parliamentary leadership in steering a just and inclusive energy transition across Southern Africa. \nSeven Key Recommendations that came out of the dialogue included: \n\nThe Just Energy Transition Must be Equitable to be Practical\nThe Platform Has Been Built – Real progress can be made by effectively using it\nParliamentarians need climate science and negotiation tools\nAcademic Institutions should anchor the transition\nCapital must come with accountability\nCall for a Working Group to follow up on discussions made during the dialogue\nDocumentation and Knowledge Sharing are essential\n\nUltimately\, the message was relayed that if the energy transition is to succeed\, it must do so through the leadership of African parliaments\, and that whether the continent continues with fossil fuels\, pivots to renewables\, or blends approaches\, parliaments must ensure that the people’s voices remain at the center of all decisions
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/parliamentary-leadership-the-energy-transition-and-the-oil-and-gas-economy-in-sadc-maputo-mozambique/
LOCATION:Maputo\, Mozambique
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ParliamentaryDialogue.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250626T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250627T170000
DTSTAMP:20250701T102130Z
CREATED:20250623T123748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T102130Z
UID:5960-1750924800-1751043600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Stakeholder Dialogue Addressing Economic Development Through Legal and FISCAL Gap Analyses of Mining Tax Laws
DESCRIPTION:Enhancing Mining Tax Law for Revenue Transparency and Accountability in Africa’s Critical Minerals Sector\n🗓️ 26–27 June 2025 | 📍 Johannesburg\, South AfricaOrganised by Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW)\, International Senior Lawyers Project (ISLP)\, and Open Society Foundations (OSF) \n\nIntroduction\nAfrica’s critical minerals\, including copper\, lithium\, and cobalt\, are central to the global energy transition. Yet\, current mining tax laws and fiscal frameworks often fail to deliver just\, equitable\, and development-focused outcomes for citizens. To address this\, SARW\, ISLP\, and OSF convened a two-day stakeholder dialogue in Johannesburg\, bringing together over 40 participants\, including fiscal lawyers\, tax justice advocates\, legal researchers\, CSOs\, regional bodies\, and academia. \n\nDay 1 Highlights\nOpening Session\nThe dialogue opened with strong framing messages emphasising that Africa’s debt crisis and the rush for its critical minerals are inseparable issues. Without aligning tax regimes with debt sustainability and development goals\, mineral wealth risks deepening economic dependency. Weak fiscal systems were highlighted as creating opportunities for tax evasion and avoidance\, underscoring the need for proactive reforms to close loopholes before they are exploited. \n\nPresentation of ISLP Legal Memorandums\nLegal memorandums analysing mining tax laws and fiscal gaps in the DRC\, Zambia\, and Madagascar were presented. Key findings included: \n\n\nDRC: Outdated mining codes\, limited judicial enforcement capacity\, lack of specialised financial crime courts\, and poor inter-ministerial coordination. Recommendations included legal reforms to enhance transparency\, empower courts to prosecute economic crimes\, and integrate mining revenues with national development plans. \n\n\nZambia: While anti-avoidance provisions are strong\, implementation is undermined by limited institutional capacity\, with only a few officers in the transfer pricing unit. Excessive tax incentives\, weaknesses in double taxation treaties\, and the absence of a harmonised mining and fiscal policy were highlighted. Recommendations focused on building capacity for transfer pricing enforcement\, revising DTAs\, and operationalising a comprehensive critical minerals strategy. \n\n\nMadagascar: Lacks a comprehensive mining policy\, has limited community participation in fiscal governance\, and ineffective revenue sharing mechanisms. Recommendations included establishing legal obligations for revenue transparency\, participatory budgeting frameworks\, public access to environmental impact assessments\, and integrating mining governance into national development objectives. \n\n\n\nCountry Reflections\nCountry groups reflected on the legal memorandums and identified: \n\n\n2–3 major legal or fiscal gaps \n\n\n1 key reform barrier \n\n\n3 national priorities for change by 2027 \n\n\nKey reflections included: \n\n\nZambia emphasised institutional capacity constraints\, especially in transfer pricing enforcement\, and highlighted the value of regional and international partnerships\, peer learning\, and civil society and media engagement to sustain pressure for transparency. \n\n\nMadagascar called for governance reforms to ensure mining revenues benefit communities directly\, prioritising revenue transparency obligations\, participatory budgeting\, and the development of a comprehensive mining policy. \n\n\nDRC highlighted the need to harmonise mining tax frameworks\, close regulatory loopholes\, and strengthen coordination between national and provincial authorities to reduce revenue leakages and support local development. \n\n\n\nCross-Cutting Themes from Day 1\nA consistent pattern emerged across all countries: \n\n\nLaws exist\, but enforcement remains weak \n\n\nFiscal incentives often carry high political costs \n\n\nCSR is used as a detour around rights-based redistribution \n\n\nCommunity voices remain marginalised in decision-making processes \n\n\n\n“Before we even talk about evasion\, we must fix the inefficiencies that allow it.” \n\n\nDay 2 Highlights\nReform Pathways and Roadmaps\nDay 2 focused on developing practical reform roadmaps. Key proposals included: \n\n\nStrengthening revenue authorities and mining ministries to ensure coordinated enforcement of tax laws and regulations \n\n\nEstablishing geological survey frameworks to enable fair and informed contract negotiations \n\n\nOperationalising revenue sharing frameworks to ensure communities benefit directly from extraction \n\n\nRegional integration to harmonise mining tax regimes\, prevent a race to the bottom\, and strengthen Africa’s bargaining power in global markets \n\n\n\nParticipant Reflections\nParticipants emphasised that progressive tax laws alone are insufficient without investment in institutional capacity\, digital systems for tax administration\, and mining cadastres to improve transparency and enforcement. Discussions underscored the need to align mining governance with national development plans and environmental and social safeguards\, and to harmonise national and provincial tax frameworks to reduce leakages. \n\nClosing Reflections\nThe dialogue closed with a shared understanding that mining tax justice requires more than legal reforms – it demands enforcement capacity\, political will\, regional collaboration\, and community-rooted accountability. \n\n“Revenue transparency is not a favour – it is a right.” \n\n\nKey Takeaways\n\nLaws exist\, but enforcement remains the gap\nFiscal incentives often benefit investors at public cost\nCSR remains voluntary and unlinked to rights-based redistribution\nRegional collaboration is essential for bargaining power\nCommunities must see and feel mineral revenues to trust governance\n\n\nRecommendations & Next Steps\n\n\nBuild institutional capacity for transfer pricing\, tax auditing\, and enforcement \n\n\nDevelop digital systems for tax collection\, monitoring\, and reporting \n\n\nHarmonise mining tax frameworks regionally\, including through platforms like Pamoja \n\n\nIntegrate mining governance with national development plans \n\n\nEnsure legal reforms are enforceable\, with embedded community participation mechanisms \n\n\n\nAcknowledgements\nSARW\, ISLP\, and OSF extend their gratitude to all speakers\, facilitators\, partners\, and participants for their expertise\, critical reflections\, and commitment to advancing mining tax justice and fiscal transparency in Africa’s critical minerals sector.
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/stakeholder-dialogue-addressing-economic-development-through-legal-and-fiscal-gap-analyses-of-mining-tax-laws/
LOCATION:Premier Hotel Midrand\, 187 3rd Road\, Halfway Gardens Midrand 1685\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 1685\, South Africa
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250528T160000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250528T180000
DTSTAMP:20250701T102251Z
CREATED:20250610T164237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T102251Z
UID:5886-1748448000-1748455200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Webinar: The Effects of Mining Critical Energy Transition Minerals on Society in Latin America and Africa
DESCRIPTION:Webinar Date: 28 May 2025Organised by: Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) in partnership with civil society actors across both continents \nOn 28 May 2025\, SARW convened a landmark Africa–Latin America webinar to interrogate the social\, economic\, and environmental consequences of mining critical energy transition minerals. The virtual dialogue brought together experts\, civil society leaders\, and academics from both regions to reflect on the geopolitical pressures shaping extractive policies and to elevate community voices calling for justice\, equity\, and true transformation. \nThe discussions centred on key challenges facing resource-rich countries navigating the green energy transition — from structural inequalities and exploitative trade agreements to the ongoing exclusion of marginalised groups\, particularly women and youth. \nSpeakers emphasized that unless energy transition efforts are grounded in justice\, participatory governance\, and strong South–South solidarity\, green industrialisation risks reproducing the same extractivist harms of the past. \n\n🔍 Key Reflections & Takeaways\nEnergy Transition & Global GeopoliticsJulieta discussed how control over value chains remains concentrated in the Global North\, despite the Global South bearing the extraction burden. Yao Graham framed the critical minerals debate within broader geopolitical tensions and called for alignment between mineral governance and Africa’s transformative visions like the AMV. \nSocial & Environmental Impacts of MiningJose De Echave and Alaka Atieno presented stark examples from Peru and Kenya of how critical mineral projects trigger environmental degradation\, fuel conflict\, and erode community rights. They underscored the need for community-led governance models\, benefit-sharing agreements\, and stronger environmental regulation. \nWomen & Territorial DefenseBeatriz Olivera and Judith from Peru spotlighted the disproportionate burden on women in mining zones\, including exposure to violence\, ecological harm\, and loss of livelihoods. They called for gendered perspectives in policy and recognised women as frontline defenders of territories and natural resources. \nSouth–South Cooperation & Extractive JusticeJanet Zhou called attention to the unequal power dynamics in international financing and trade agreements\, especially those shaped by G20 and bilateral deals. Speakers collectively urged civil society actors in Africa and Latin America to develop a shared solidarity agenda that pushes for fairer terms and alternative development models. \nTowards Equitable TransitionsThe panel reaffirmed that a just energy transition must centre on human rights\, indigenous sovereignty\, and structural transformation. Local beneficiation\, democratic participation\, and strengthened regional frameworks are critical to achieving long-term social and economic justice. \n\n🛠 Next Steps\n\n\nPan-African–Latin American convening: TWN-Africa will lead efforts to organise a follow-up conference focused on cross-regional solidarity and critical minerals. \n\n\nG20 Engagement: Webinar insights will feed into the T20 Task Forces on trade and financing for development. \n\n\nYouth & Gender Participation: CSOs to institutionalise mechanisms for inclusive participation in policy processes. \n\n\nSouth–South Joint Agenda: Ongoing coordination between African and Latin American partners to build advocacy platforms around mineral governance.
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/the-effects-of-mining-critical-energy-transition-minerals-on-society-in-latin-america-and-africa/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250515T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250515T170000
DTSTAMP:20250610T164854Z
CREATED:20250516T103940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250610T164854Z
UID:5851-1747296000-1747328400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Webinar: The Role of Youth in Critical Minerals Governance\, the Energy Transition\, and Climate Change in Zambia
DESCRIPTION:On 15 May 2025\, Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance convened a dynamic youth-centred webinar to explore the intersection of critical minerals governance\, climate change\, and Zambia’s energy transition. The webinar brought together students\, activists\, and civil society leaders to reflect on the urgent need for inclusive\, sustainable\, and just mineral governance in the face of global green energy demands. \nParticipants engaged in a robust discussion around Zambia’s mineral wealth—including copper\, cobalt\, and lithium—and the pressing need for youth inclusion in shaping policies that govern their extraction\, use\, and impact on people and the environment. \nKey Themes and Contributions\n\nYouth and Mineral Governance: Participants called for formal platforms to allow youth to engage in the design\, monitoring\, and implementation of policies governing critical minerals.\nClimate Change and Energy Crisis: Discussions addressed how Zambia’s energy challenges\, including persistent load shedding\, are directly tied to mineral governance and missed opportunities to harness clean energy.\nGender and Environmental Justice: Panellists raised concern over the gendered impacts of mining\, especially how women’s land rights and health are compromised in mining communities.\nArtisanal and Illegal Mining: The webinar unpacked the realities of illegal mining in Zambia\, stressing the need for improved regulation\, licensing\, and youth-led awareness campaigns.\nGeopolitics and Skills Development: Discussions explored Zambia’s geopolitical position in the global minerals market and the need to invest in youth skills development to better engage with the sector.\n\nNotable Voices\nStudent leaders from the University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU)\, Copperbelt University Students Union (COBUSU)\, and UNZADESA brought lived experiences and academic insight into the challenges and opportunities facing youth in Zambia’s extractives sector. \nRepresentatives from civil society and youth organisations also spoke passionately on the need for transformative education\, intergenerational equity\, and accountable leadership. \nOutcomes and Next Steps\nParticipants agreed on several action points to continue momentum from the discussion: \n\nYouth participants will establish youth advisory councils to engage government on critical minerals policies.\nOrganisations will develop and share education and sensitization programs on critical minerals and their governance.\nCollaboration will be strengthened between youth groups in Solwezi\, Kabula\, and Lusaka to address local mining impacts.\nParticipants are invited to join the Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance and take part in the upcoming international launch at Copperbelt University in August 2025.\n\nConclusion\nThe webinar highlighted that Zambia’s mineral future must be shaped with and for its youth. As global interest in Africa’s critical minerals intensifies\, it is essential that the voices of young people are not only heard—but structurally embedded in decision-making. \nThis dialogue marks a critical step toward building an intergenerational movement for just\, inclusive\, and transparent mineral governance in Zambia. \nIn Case You Missed it \nListen here
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/the-role-of-youth-in-critical-minerals/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250430T150000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250430T170000
DTSTAMP:20250610T165213Z
CREATED:20250507T084049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250610T165213Z
UID:5825-1746025200-1746032400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Webinar: Whither the Democratic Republic of Congo?
DESCRIPTION:The Geopolitics of Critical Energy Transition Minerals and the DRC’s Resource Curse\nOn 30 April 2025\, Southern Africa Resource Watch hosted a timely and compelling webinar under the theme “Whither the Democratic Republic of Congo? Interrogating the Geopolitics of Critical Energy Transition Minerals and the DRC’s Resource Curse.” Held amid escalating geopolitical tensions and mineral-fuelled violence\, the webinar brought together policy experts\, civil society voices\, and international analysts to examine how the global race for transition minerals is deepening the DRC’s long-standing development challenges. \nThe conversation was shaped by recent developments—including the DRC’s temporary ban on cobalt exports\, the ongoing conflict involving M23 rebels\, and mounting pressure from both the United States and China to secure access to the DRC’s vast mineral wealth. With cobalt\, copper\, lithium\, tin\, and tantalum playing pivotal roles in clean technologies\, the DRC remains at the heart of the global energy transition—but too often\, its people remain excluded from its benefits. \nThe session was moderated by Prof. David Monyae\, Director of the Centre for Africa–China Studies at the University of Johannesburg\, and featured insights from: \n\nMaurice Miema\, Director\, Centre for Expertise\, Evaluation and Certification of Minerals (CEEC)\, DRC\nProf Nathalie Nakabanda\, Faculty of Law\, Catholic University of Bukavu and Higher Institute of Rural Development\, DRC\nLandry Djimpe\, Managing Partner\, Innogence Consulting\, DRC\nSasha Lezhnev\, Senior Policy Advisor\, The Sentry\nWilson Rading\, Partner\, The Rand Institute for Policy and Education\n\nWhat we heard:\n\nThe Resource Curse is Alive and Evolving: Speakers warned that the global demand for cobalt\, copper\, and 3T minerals (tin\, tungsten\, tantalum) is reinforcing cycles of exploitation\, conflict\, and corruption. Prof Nakabanda delivered a powerful testimony on systemic human rights violations in eastern DRC—ranging from sexual violence to forced displacement—and called for peace\, justice\, and governance rooted in protecting the lives of Congolese citizens.\nIllicit Trade and International Complicity: Sasha Lezhnev unpacked the conflict economy behind mineral extraction\, highlighting the roles of armed groups\, corrupt state actors\, and multinational corporations. He stressed the need for contract transparency\, enforcement of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI)\, and sanctions against those profiting from illicit trade.\nGeopolitics and Mineral Diplomacy: Landry Djimpe highlighted the geopolitical tug-of-war between China and the United States\, each seeking to dominate supply chains. Despite rising commodity prices\, value addition remains elusive in the DRC\, due to underdeveloped infrastructure\, limited local processing capacity\, and the foreign control of key assets.\nHope Lies in Governance\, Not Just Partnerships: Wilson Rading argued that unless governance\, law enforcement\, and community inclusion are prioritised\, emerging security-for-minerals deals will only entrench the status quo. He called for demilitarisation\, coherent resource policies\, and justice for both past and ongoing atrocities.\nReforming the Artisanal Sector: Maurice Miema offered insights into the government’s efforts to formalise artisanal mining through cooperatives\, designated export zones\, and pilot schemes. However\, he acknowledged that implementation remains weak\, particularly in enforcing Article 30 of the Mining Code\, which regulates the coexistence of industrial and artisanal mining.\n\nWhere Do We Go From Here?\n\nA two-page policy brief will be published to consolidate the key insights and recommendations.\nThe DRC government is being urged to formalise artisanal mining\, enforce cohabitation laws\, and expand infrastructure and skills development to support mineral beneficiation.\nThe US and EU were called upon to embed transparency\, accountability\, and local beneficiation in all future mineral agreements with the DRC.\nCivil society and international partners must continue to challenge extractive geopolitics and advocate for just\, sustainable governance of the DRC’s mineral resources.\n\nWebinar Recording & Audio\n📥 Missed the discussion?You can now watch or download the full webinar and audio
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/webinar-whither-the-democratic-republic-of-congo/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250408T110000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250408T120000
DTSTAMP:20250509T074300Z
CREATED:20250401T152627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T074300Z
UID:5675-1744110000-1744113600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Webinar: South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnerships
DESCRIPTION:Understanding the Implications of the SA-EU Clean Trade and Investment Partnership (CTIP) \nOn 8 April 2025\, we organised a high-level webinar to unpack the evolving Critical Minerals Partnership between South Africa and the European Union (EU). The discussion followed the 8th SA–EU Summit\, where both partners committed to a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership (CTIP) aimed at supporting environmentally sustainable value chains across critical minerals\, green hydrogen\, and clean technologies. The webinar explored how this partnership aligns with South Africa’s industrial policy\, quest for a just energy transition\, and domestic mineral beneficiation objectives. \nThe session drew 79 participants and featured expert contributions from: \n\nProfessor Mkhulu Mathe\, Head of the Centre for Energy Materials Design and Innovation\, University of South Africa\nGaylor Montmasson-Clair\, Director and Co-Founder\, Southern Transitions\nSodhie Naicker\, Managing Director\, DMT Kai Batla South Africa\nDr Nqobile Xaba\, Energy and Mineral Resource Development Specialist\, Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection\nJulia Poliscanova\, Senior Director for Vehicles & E-Mobility Supply Chains at Transport & Environment (Brussels)\n\nThe discussion was moderated by Koffi Kouakou\, Senior Lecturer at the Wits School of Governance. \nKey Takeaways\n\nStrategic Autonomy is Non-Negotiable: Panellists emphasised the importance of South Africa defining its own Critical Minerals Strategy—one that aligns with national development priorities\, fosters value addition\, and drives inclusive growth. Dr Xaba cautioned that without robust criticality assessments and clear policy direction\, the country risks reinforcing current patterns of exporting raw materials and commodity dependency within global supply chains.\nPartnership Must Go Beyond Rhetoric: Sodhie Naicker challenged the asymmetrical nature of current negotiations\, describing some agreements as “extraction deals dressed in green.”He called for co-investment in value chains—beyond access to geological data and raw materials—emphasising the need for joint ventures and shared infrastructure to ensure meaningful and mutual benefit between SA and the EU.\nBattery Minerals Over Hydrogen Hype: Julia Poliscanova suggested the CTIP should prioritise battery minerals\, particularly high-purity manganese\, citing rising demand and feasibility. She warned against prematurely scaling up green hydrogen exports in the absence of a confirmed demand base from the EU.\nRegional Approaches and Knowledge Transfer Needed: Professor Mathe advocated for a SADC-led negotiation strategy\, as opposed to fragmented and overlapping bilateral deals. He also stressed the need for mineral education curricula reform\, closer industry–academia collaboration to support Research\, Development and Innovation\, and structured secondmentsto close skills gaps.\nFinance\, Infrastructure\, and Industrial Policy Must Align: A recurring concern was the lack of early-stage exploration funding\, inadequate value-adding infrastructure\, and the absence of industrial development incentives to move South Africa beyond its traditional role as a raw material supplier.\n\nLooking Ahead\nAs South Africa finalises its Critical Minerals Strategy\, it faces a pivotal question: will partnerships like the CTIP be leveraged to drive local transformation\, or will the country remain a supplier of unprocessed minerals? \nThe discussion made it clear that South Africa must engage with the EU in ways that will strengthen its critical minerals value addition\, and support for a just energy transition. Transparency and\, and accountability must be central to this CTIP\, which is a first in the world.  We will continue to monitor developments around the CTIP and convene platforms that interrogate the opportunities and challenges presented by the demand for critical energy transition minerals in Africa. \nWebinar Recording & Audio \n📥 Missed the discussion?You can now watch or download the full webinar and audio
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/sa-eu-critical-minerals-partnership/
LOCATION:Online
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250204T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250204T190000
DTSTAMP:20250212T172258Z
CREATED:20250122T125328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T172258Z
UID:5178-1738692000-1738695600@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa | Launch of Research Publications on Critical Minerals and Renewable Energy Value Chains
DESCRIPTION:On February 4\, 2025\, the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) hosted the official launch of its six research publications on Critical Minerals and Renewable Energy Value Chains in Southern Africa. The event brought together policymakers\, researchers\, industry experts\, and civil society representatives to discuss key findings\, strategic recommendations\, and pathways for local beneficiation\, industrialization\, and just energy transitions. \nKey Highlights\n\nPresentation of Research Findings: The reports analyze critical minerals’ role in Africa’s energy transition\, focusing on DRC\, Zambia\, Zimbabwe\, Madagascar\, Namibia\, and Mozambique.\nPanel Discussions: Experts examined energy poverty\, governance challenges\, and the need for policy reforms to ensure Africa benefits from its mineral wealth.\nCalls for Local Industrialization: The reports emphasize reducing reliance on raw mineral exports and developing regional value chains for battery production and clean energy.\nHuman Rights & Governance Focus: Discussions addressed the importance of transparency\, fair labor practices\, and equitable revenue sharing in the mining and energy sectors.\n\nKey Takeaways\n\nAfrica must shift from being a raw material exporter to a key player in the global energy transition.\nGovernance and policy reforms are crucial to ensure communities benefit from critical mineral extraction.\nInvestment in renewable energy and infrastructure is essential for sustainable industrial growth.\nA human rights-centered approach must guide mining and energy policies to protect workers and communities.\n\nDownload the Reports\n📥 Access all six publications here: https://www.sarwatch.co.za/resources/ \nClosing Remarks\nThe event concluded with a call for multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive sustainable and equitable development in Africa’s mining and energy sectors. As SARW continues to advocate for responsible resource governance\, these research findings will serve as a foundation for policy engagement and action. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/launch-of-research-publications-on-critical-minerals-and-renewable-energy-value-chains-in-southern-africa-key-actors-and-initiatives/
LOCATION:Double Tree Top by Hilton\, Cape Town\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Report-launch-website.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250202T170000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250202T200000
DTSTAMP:20250320T084453Z
CREATED:20250122T125550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T084453Z
UID:5181-1738515600-1738526400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa | Official Launch of the Africa Mining Accountability Platform (AMAP)
DESCRIPTION:INTRODUCTION \nOn February 2\, 2025\, at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town\, South Africa\, Southern Africa Resource Watch officially launched the Africa Mining Accountability Platform (AMAP)\, a transformative digital tool designed to promote ethical\, responsible\, and sustainable mining across the continent. The launch event brought together key stakeholders\, including mining executives\, government officials\, civil society representatives\, and community leaders\, to discuss the urgent need for transparency and fairness in Africa’s resource governance. \nDownload the App \nEvent Highlights\nThe event featured powerful speeches\, live demonstrations of the AMAP platform\, and discussions on how technology can bridge the gap between mining companies\, governments\, and local communities. \nKeynote Address – Board Chairperson Deprose Muchena\nDeprose Muchena\, Board Chairperson of SARW\, set the tone for the event with a compelling address\, highlighting the paradox of Africa’s resource wealth and the persistent underdevelopment of mining-affected communities. He stated: \n“Mining in Africa has always existed\, but it has left a legacy of exclusion and underdevelopment. We cannot continue to witness a paradox where nations rich in natural resources remain poor in human development. This platform is a step towards ensuring that communities benefit from the resources they rightfully own.”\nHis remarks underscored AMAP’s mission to empower communities\, build trust\, and enhance transparency in the mining industry. \nPlatform Overview & Live Demonstration\nAttendees had the opportunity to witness a live demonstration of the AMAP platform\, showcasing its key functionalities\, including: \n\nReal-time reporting of environmental\, social\, and governance (ESG) concerns.\nMonitoring best practices by mining companies and governments.\nBuilding trust between corporations and affected communities.\nImproving sustainability reporting and human rights due diligence.\nProviding data-driven insights to stakeholders in the mining sector.\n\nPanel Discussion: The Future of Ethical Mining in Africa\nA high-level panel discussion followed the demonstration\, featuring industry experts and community representatives. The discussion centered on: \n\nHow AMAP supports communities in advocating for their rights.\nThe role of mining companies in ensuring fair and sustainable resource extraction.\nGovernment accountability in regulating mining practices.\n\nThe panel reinforced the importance of digital tools like AMAP in bridging the information gap between stakeholders and ensuring that natural resources contribute to social and economic development. \nNext Steps & Call to Action\nWith AMAP now officially live\, SARW encourages all stakeholders to: 🔹 Explore the platform and see how it can support transparency in mining: www.app.sarwatch.co.za 🔹 Engage with the community by sharing insights and feedback. 🔹 Advocate for responsible mining using AMAP’s reporting tools. \nConclusion\nThe launch of AMAP marks a significant step toward fair\, sustainable\, and responsible mining in Africa. As mining remains a key economic driver for many African nations\, tools like AMAP will play a crucial role in ensuring that natural resources benefit the people first. Stay tuned for more updates and upcoming stakeholder engagements as we continue to push for a more transparent mining industry. [vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]  
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/amap-africa-mining-accountability-platform/
LOCATION:Double Tree Top by Hilton\, Cape Town\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AMAP-feature-222.png
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241127T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241128T170000
DTSTAMP:20250212T173226Z
CREATED:20241202T105543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T173226Z
UID:4801-1732694400-1732813200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Democratic Republic of Congo | National High-level Dialogue: NDC 3.0 WORKSHOP: Reimagining the DRC's NDC
DESCRIPTION:The National Dialogue on Reimagining the DRC’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0 brought together key stakeholders\, including government officials\, academics\, civil society organizations\, and international partners\, to reimagine the country’s climate action strategies. \nObjective\nThe conference aimed to transform the DRC’s NDC into a robust framework for socio-economic development and a meaningful tool in the global fight against climate change. \nKey Highlights\n\nInclusive Climate Action:\n\nDiscussions emphasized integrating new sectors\, such as health\, circular economy\, gender\, and a just energy transition\, into the revised NDC framework.\n\n\nChallenges Identified:\n\nLimited Financing: Of the $40 billion targeted for the NDC 2.0\, less than 10% was mobilized.\nTechnical and Technological Capacity Gaps: There is a need for enhanced resources and expertise for effective implementation and monitoring of climate initiatives.\nCommunity Engagement: The lack of awareness and participation at the grassroots level remains a barrier to effective NDC implementation.\n\n\nRecommendations:\n\nEvaluation of NDC 2.0: Comprehensive assessment to inform the drafting of NDC 3.0.\nCapacity Building: Focus on human resource development to improve funding mobilization and technical expertise.\nStakeholder Coordination: Strengthening inter-ministerial collaboration and creating transparent decision-making mechanisms.\nLocalizing Climate Action: Using tools like community radios to engage communities and ensure inclusivity.\n\n\n\nInternational Partners’ Contributions\nThe UNDP underscored its commitment to supporting the DRC in integrating these new domains and mobilizing green funds. However\, they highlighted the critical need for institutional capacity to enhance fund utilization and accountability. \nConclusion\nThe conference served as a platform for candid dialogue and actionable recommendations. As the DRC embarks on drafting NDC 3.0\, the focus remains on fostering inclusivity\, building resilience\, and ensuring that climate action translates into tangible benefits for its citizens. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/drc-ndc-3-0-workshop-reimagining-the-drcs-ndc-actions-against-change/
LOCATION:Kinsasha\, DRC
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241121T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241122T170000
DTSTAMP:20250212T173640Z
CREATED:20241016T084508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T173640Z
UID:3545-1732176000-1732294800@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa | High-level Dialogue on Human Rights Protection and Environmental Sustainability in Mining Areas
DESCRIPTION:Event Overview\nOn November 21-22\, 2024\, SARW hosted a critical two-day dialogue aimed at addressing the pressing issues faced by mining communities across Southern Africa. This event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders\, including representatives from mining companies\, financial institutions\, local governments\, civil society organizations\, and impacted communities. The main objective was to explore the complexities of mining’s socioeconomic and environmental impacts while developing actionable solutions to protect the rights of affected communities. \nThe dialogue focused on three key themes: \n\nSocioeconomic and Environmental Rights in Mining Communities\nCorporate Responsibility and Accountability\nCollaborative Approaches to Addressing Mining’s Challenges\n\nKey Highlights and Discussions\nThe event featured robust discussions centered around the intersection of mining activities and human rights. Key speakers\, including legal practitioners\, civil society activists\, and government officials\, underscored the critical need for transparency\, accountability\, and collaboration to create sustainable and just outcomes for mining communities. \nDay 1: Corporate Responsibility and Accountability\nKeynote speakers emphasized the need for mining companies to develop and implement clear human rights policies. These policies should include provisions for community consultation\, grievance mechanisms\, and transparency in operations. Speakers also highlighted the importance of fostering responsible investment practices and ensuring that companies’ operations do not come at the expense of human rights or environmental sustainability. \nDay 2: Community Empowerment and Collaborative Approaches\nOn the second day\, discussions focused on the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes and ensuring that mining activities do not violate the rights of affected communities. The dialogue highlighted the need for communities to be better informed and involved\, with an emphasis on ensuring that consultations are meaningful and conducted in the communities’ languages. There was also a strong call for collective action\, with stakeholders agreeing that collaboration between communities\, governments\, and businesses is essential to address the challenges faced by mining communities. \nActionable Takeaways and Recommendations\nThe dialogue concluded with several actionable takeaways that will guide future efforts in the sector: \n\nDevelop Clear Human Rights Policies:\nMining companies were urged to adopt comprehensive human rights policies that outline how they will manage risks\, including labor rights\, land rights\, and environmental concerns. These policies should be easily accessible to affected communities and include provisions for community grievances and complaints.\nCommunity Consultation and Empowerment:\nA key recommendation was the strengthening of consultation processes\, ensuring they are timely\, accessible\, and conducted in local languages. It was agreed that meaningful consultation\, including the concept of Free\, Prior\, and Informed Consent (FPIC)\, must be a fundamental part of mining operations.\nTransparent Grievance Mechanisms:\nParticipants called for the establishment of clear and accessible grievance mechanisms for mining communities\, ensuring they can report violations or concerns safely and effectively. These mechanisms should be part of the mining companies’ due diligence process and actively promoted to affected communities.\nFocus on Rehabilitation and Land Restoration:\nThe discussion also touched on the issue of mine rehabilitation. Stakeholders agreed that unused rehabilitation funds should be repurposed for community development initiatives to address the long-term socioeconomic impacts of mining. The implementation of stronger mine closure policies and more stringent enforcement was seen as essential.\nBuilding Trust and Addressing Power Asymmetries:\nAddressing trust issues and power asymmetries between stakeholders was another priority. The dialogue emphasized the need for multi-stakeholder collaborations\, including government\, business\, civil society\, and local communities\, to tackle these challenges effectively.\n\nCall to Action\nAs the event wrapped up\, participants were united in their call for urgent action: \n\nEngagement and Collaboration: Mining companies\, governments\, and financial institutions must work together more effectively to protect the rights of mining communities.\nPolicy Reform: A collective effort to strengthen policies and ensure that mining practices align with human rights standards is critical.\nEnhanced Corporate Accountability: Mining companies must be held accountable for their actions\, with a focus on long-term sustainability and the well-being of affected communities.\nSupport for Affected Communities: Community-driven initiatives should be prioritized\, ensuring that affected people have a voice in decisions that impact their lives\, land\, and livelihoods.\n\nLooking Ahead\nThe two-day dialogue set the stage for continued conversations and actions to ensure the protection of mining communities’ socioeconomic and environmental rights. Stakeholders are committed to pursuing the implementation of the recommendations made during the event\, with follow-up meetings and collaborations to be scheduled in the coming months. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/private-stakeholder-dialogue-conference-on-human-rights-and-conflict-redress-mechanism-in-mining-affected-communities/
LOCATION:Durban\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Durban.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241101T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241101T170000
DTSTAMP:20250214T092236Z
CREATED:20241110T200126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T092236Z
UID:4519-1730448000-1730480400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa | The Pre COP29 Parliamentary Dialogue: Moving from Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy Sources
DESCRIPTION:1. Overview\nThe COP29 Parliamentary Dialogue brought together parliamentary representatives from Mozambique\, South Africa\, and Namibia\, alongside stakeholders\, and policy advocates. The conference focused on Africa’s transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy\, emphasizing a just transition and collaborative climate action. \n2. Objectives\nThe dialogue aimed to: \n\nDiscuss Africa’s unique energy challenges and opportunities.\nAddress the financial and environmental impacts of fossil fuel dependence.\nFoster collaboration on policies supporting sustainable energy transitions.\nIntegrate human rights and economic resilience in energy policy frameworks.\n\n[vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/south-africa-interparliamentary-dialogue-moving-from-fossil-fuels-to-renewables/
LOCATION:Cape Town\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241009T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241009T170000
DTSTAMP:20250212T174119Z
CREATED:20241016T133542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T174119Z
UID:3558-1728460800-1728493200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa | High-Level Dialogue on African Priorities ahead of the COP29 Summit in Baku
DESCRIPTION:On October 9\, 2024\, the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) convened a vital dialogue that brought Africa’s climate priorities into sharp focus ahead of the COP29 summit in Baku. The event gathered key stakeholders\, including parliamentarians\, civil society\, climate negotiators\, and industry leaders\, to discuss Africa’s role in the global climate agenda. Central to the discussions were issues of climate finance\, adaptation strategies\, and ensuring a just and equitable energy transition for the continent. \nKey Highlights: \n\nClimate Finance and Debt Justice\nAfrican ministers stressed the importance of a needs-based approach to climate finance\, calling on developed countries to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2030. They emphasized that this funding should come through public finance\, structured as grants or highly concessional loans to avoid worsening Africa’s already strained debt situation. Veronica Jakarasi\, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators\, underscored the need for reparations from the world’s largest historical greenhouse gas emitters\, as many African economies are in distress.\nNew Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG)\nPrabhat Upadhaya from the African Climate Foundation called for climate finance to significantly surpass the current $100 billion per year\, advocating for an NCQG that matches the scale of the crisis\, especially in vulnerable regions. The discussion also emphasized streamlining access to climate finance and reducing bureaucratic barriers for African nations.\nCarbon Markets\nA crucial discussion focused on the governance of carbon markets in Africa. Participants highlighted the importance of aligning Africa’s carbon trading mechanisms with Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement and regulating them to avoid the double counting of credits. Capacity-building for Measurement\, Reporting\, and Verification (MRV) of carbon credits was identified as critical\, with initiatives like the UNFCCC’s Article 6 Capacity Building Work Programme seen as key supports.\nLoss and Damage Fund\nThe operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund emerged as a top priority. Participants stressed the need for non-debt finance mechanisms\, particularly grants\, to help African nations cope with the rising impacts of climate change. This fund was seen as essential for both disaster response and long-term climate resilience.\nJust Energy Transition\nNeil Cole from The Presidency of South Africa emphasized that Africa’s energy transition should prioritize not just decarbonization\, but also ensure affordable\, reliable\, and sustainable energy access for all. The session highlighted the importance of community engagement and sustainable development in mitigating the socio-economic impacts of this transition.\nGender and Climate Action\nAddressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and vulnerable populations\, the dialogue underscored the urgency of integrating gender into climate policies. Participants called for more resources to accelerate gender-sensitive climate adaptation and disaster response efforts.\n\nKey Takeaways: \n\nAfrican nations must advocate for grant-based climate finance to prevent deepening debt burdens and empower vulnerable communities.\nCritical minerals offer economic opportunities for Africa\, but local industries must be developed\, and fair pricing ensured.\nThe Loss and Damage Fund must be operationalized swiftly to support African nations already dealing with climate-related disasters.\nA just energy transition is crucial\, focusing on alternative livelihoods for communities dependent on fossil fuels and aligning the transition with sustainable development goals.\nCarbon markets hold potential for Africa\, but they require robust regulation\, capacity building\, and equitable mechanisms to ensure local communities benefit fairly.\n\nAs we move toward COP29\, it is clear that Africa’s voice is indispensable in shaping global climate action. This dialogue reinforced the need for trust\, transparency\, and equity in addressing climate challenges. Africa not only contributes to global climate solutions but is also asserting that its interests and those of its people must be a priority in the international climate agenda. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/south-africa-the-road-to-cop29-high-level-dialogue-on-african-priorities/
LOCATION:Cape Town\, South Africa
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Untitled-design2.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241002T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241004T170000
DTSTAMP:20241110T195118Z
CREATED:20241110T150554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241110T195118Z
UID:3679-1727856000-1728061200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:DRC - 8th Edition of Alternative Mining Indaba 2024
DESCRIPTION:Day One\n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row] \nTraining of human rights defenders in the context of mineral exploitation\n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row] \nInternational People’s Tribunal Against Violations of Women’s Rights in DRC’s Mining Areas\n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/drc-alternative-mining-indaba-2024/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG-20241002-WA0141.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240925T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240926T170000
DTSTAMP:20241016T120411Z
CREATED:20241015T181351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241016T120411Z
UID:3465-1727251200-1727370000@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa - Training of indigenous people and mining communities on rights protection
DESCRIPTION:The Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW)\, in collaboration with the Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) and Natural Justice\, organized a two-day training for indigenous people and mining communities on rights protection. The event took place at the Centurion Hotel from September 25 to 26\, 2024 and aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their rights against the backdrop of environmental degradation and mining activities. \nDay 1 Summary\nThe training began with an introduction by SARW’s Junior Project Officer\, Gerson Mendes\, who welcomed participants and introduced the trainers. Over 25 women from mining-affected regions\, including Carolina\, Ermelo\, Mokopane\, Newcastle\, and Sekhukhune\, participated. The first session\, led by Matome Kapa and Thami Nkosi from CER\, covered the fundamentals of environmental law\, focusing on Section 24 of the Constitution\, which guarantees environmental rights. Participants were introduced to the legal framework\, including the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA)\, and engaged in group exercises to address practical community issues such as acid mine drainage and air pollution. \nThe second session explored legal processes\, evidence gathering\, and community engagement strategies to address environmental concerns. Participants were encouraged to document and communicate their issues effectively with government authorities to advocate for sustainable change. \nDay 2 Summary\nThe second day started with a session by David Mtshali from Natural Justice\, focusing on Indigenous Rights and Free\, Prior\, and Informed Consent (FPIC). This session emphasized the right of indigenous communities to be adequately informed and consulted before any development project affecting their lands is approved. The session highlighted key legal cases\, including the landmark Endorois case\, which established the right to FPIC. \nThe training also covered the importance of Social and Labour Plans (SLPs) in mining communities. SARW’s Research and Policy Officer\, Monica Mbugua\, led discussions on the manipulation of consultation processes by mining companies and the critical need for public participation in the development and monitoring of SLPs. Actionable strategies were provided to participants\, encouraging them to engage actively in SLP processes and demand transparency from mining companies and government authorities. \nKey Outcomes\n\nIncreased Awareness: Participants gained a deeper understanding of their legal rights and the environmental laws that protect their communities.\nEmpowerment: The training empowered community members to actively engage in consultations with mining companies and the government\, ensuring their voices are heard.\nEnvironmental Advocacy: The women were equipped with the tools to monitor the social and environmental impacts of mining activities and advocate for remediation when necessary.\nLegal Preparedness: Communities were introduced to legal processes and were encouraged to use their newfound knowledge to protect their land\, environment\, and community welfare from exploitative practices.\n\nConclusion\nThe training marked a significant step in enhancing the confidence and advocacy skills of the participants. It provided them with critical tools for engaging in legal processes\, advocating for corporate accountability\, and ensuring sustainable practices within mining operations. As the program concluded\, the participants were better prepared to take part in an upcoming dialogue between civil society organizations and private sector stakeholders in the minerals value chain\, fostering continued activism and collaboration to safeguard their communities. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/south-africa-training-of-indigenous-people-and-mining-communities-on-rights-protection/
LOCATION:Pretoria\, South Africa\, South Africa
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240829T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240830T170000
DTSTAMP:20241015T175828Z
CREATED:20240802T081853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241015T175828Z
UID:2896-1724918400-1725037200@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Zambia - Technical Roundtable on the Geopolitics of Africa’s Critical Mineral Resources
DESCRIPTION:Technical Roundtable on the Geopolitics of Africa’s Critical Mineral Resources \nLusaka\, Zambia – 29th & 30th August 2024 \nIntroduction \nThe Technical Roundtable on the Geopolitics of Africa’s Critical Mineral Resources was held in Lusaka\, Zambia\, on the 29th and 30th of August 2024. The event gathered key stakeholders\, including representatives from African governments\, international organizations\, industry experts\, civil society\, and academia. The discussions were centred around the geopolitical dynamics\, strategic management\, and governance of Africa’s critical mineral resources\, which are pivotal to the continent’s economic transformation and global positioning in the era of green energy and the fourth industrial revolution. \nKey Themes and Discussions \nThe roundtable provided a platform for in-depth discussions on several critical themes\, reflecting the complex interplay between Africa’s mineral wealth and the global geopolitical landscape: \n\n Geopolitical Dynamics and Global Interests: Africa’s critical minerals\, including cobalt\, lithium\, and rare earth elements\, are essential to the global transition towards renewable energy and technological advancement. The roundtable highlighted the intense global competition for these resources\, with major powers such as China\, the United States\, and the European Union\, as well as emerging economies\, actively seeking to secure access to Africa’s mineral wealth. The discussions underscored the need for Africa to navigate these geopolitical pressures strategically\, ensuring that the continent’s resources are utilized for the benefit of its people rather than merely serving external interests.\n The Paradox of Resource Wealth: Despite Africa’s vast mineral wealth\, many African nations continue to face significant socio-economic challenges. The roundtable addressed this paradox\, emphasizing the historical and ongoing exploitation of Africa’s resources by foreign powers\, which has often resulted in limited economic development for the continent. Participants called for a shift from the traditional model of resource extraction to one that prioritizes value addition\, local beneficiation\, and the development of robust local industries.\n Ownership and Control of Mineral Resources: A major point of contention during the discussions was the issue of ownership and control over Africa’s mineral resources. It was noted that many African countries do not have full ownership of their resources\, with significant portions being controlled by foreign corporations. The example of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) producing 76% of the world’s cobalt\, yet not fully owning this production\, was highlighted. This situation underscores the need for African nations to assert greater control over their resources\, negotiate better deals\, and ensure that the benefits of resource extraction contribute to national development.\n Policy and Institutional Frameworks: The roundtable emphasized the critical need for effective policies and institutions to govern the extraction and management of mineral resources. The gap between policy formulation and implementation was identified as a significant barrier to progress. Participants called for the development of coherent and enforceable policies that align with continental frameworks such as the African Mining Vision and the emerging African Green Minerals Strategy. These policies should be geared towards promoting sustainable development\, environmental protection\, and social equity.\n Regional Integration and Collective Action: The importance of regional cooperation and integration was a recurring theme throughout the roundtable. It was argued that unilateral and bilateral approaches to resource management have historically failed to yield significant benefits for African countries. Instead\, there was a strong call for collective action at the regional and continental levels\, with a focus on harmonizing policies\, pooling resources\, and negotiating as a bloc in international forums. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was highlighted as a critical platform for advancing these goals.\n Youth Empowerment and Education: Recognizing that Africa’s youthful population is both a challenge and an opportunity\, the roundtable stressed the importance of investing in education and entrepreneurship to harness the potential of the continent’s youth. By equipping young Africans with the necessary skills and knowledge\, the continent can foster innovation\, drive economic growth\, and ensure that the next generation is capable of managing and benefiting from Africa’s mineral wealth.\n Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Mining: The discussions also addressed the environmental impacts of mining\, particularly in the context of green energy transitions. It was noted that while critical minerals are essential for renewable energy technologies\, their extraction often comes with significant environmental and social costs. The roundtable called for a balance between resource extraction and environmental protection\, advocating for responsible and ethical mining practices that prioritize the well-being of local communities and the sustainability of ecosystems.\n\nPresence of the Zambian Minister of Mines \nThe presence of Zambia’s Minister of Mines was a significant highlight of the roundtable\, underscoring the importance of governmental involvement in these discussions. The Minister shared insights into Zambia’s plans to increase copper production and highlighted the ongoing efforts to launch the country’s critical mineral strategy. This strategy aims to ensure that Zambia’s mineral wealth is harnessed for national development\, with a focus on increasing local ownership and value addition. The Minister’s participation also signaled Zambia’s commitment to playing a leading role in the regional and continental efforts to manage Africa’s mineral resources more effectively. \nKey Outcomes and Action Items \nThe roundtable concluded with several key outcomes and action items designed to advance the strategic management of Africa’s critical mineral resources: \n\nStrengthen Policy and Institutional Frameworks: African governments were urged to develop and implement robust policies that align with the African Mining Vision and the African Green Minerals Strategy. These policies should prioritize local beneficiation\, value addition\, and environmental sustainability.\nEnhance Regional Cooperation: There was a strong consensus on the need for regional integration and collective action. African countries were encouraged to work together through regional organizations and initiatives such as the AfCFTA to negotiate better deals and protect their interests on the global stage.\nEmpower Youth and Invest in Education: The roundtable highlighted the need to invest in education and entrepreneurship to equip Africa’s youth with the skills necessary to lead the continent’s economic transformation. Participants called for the establishment of educational programs and initiatives that focus on critical minerals\, renewable energy\, and technological innovation.\nPromote Ethical Mining Practices: African countries were urged to adopt and enforce ethical mining practices that protect the environment and ensure the well-being of local communities. This includes developing and implementing frameworks for responsible mining and corporate accountability.\nIncrease Local Ownership and Control: African nations were encouraged to assert greater control over their mineral resources by negotiating better terms with foreign investors\, ensuring that a significant portion of the benefits from resource extraction remains within the continent.\n\nConclusion \nThe Technical Roundtable on the Geopolitics of Africa’s Critical Mineral Resources was a pivotal event that underscored the importance of strategic management\, regional cooperation\, and effective governance in harnessing Africa’s mineral wealth for the benefit of its people. The presence of high-level government officials\, including Zambia’s Minister of Mines\, highlighted the political will to address these issues at both the national and regional levels. The roundtable concluded with a strong call to action\, urging African nations to seize the opportunity presented by the global demand for critical minerals to drive sustainable development\, industrialization\, and economic transformation across the continent. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/geopolitics-high-level-dialogue/
LOCATION:Zambia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Group-photo.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240805T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240809T170000
DTSTAMP:20240828T100337Z
CREATED:20240715T111253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T100337Z
UID:2400-1722844800-1723222800@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Mozambique - Political Parties Dialogue on Resource Extraction\, Development and Climate Change
DESCRIPTION:From August 5 – 9\, 2024\, a significant meeting was held in Mozambique\, bringing together political parties and key stakeholders to discuss the critical issues of climate resilience\, energy transition\, and natural resource management. Organised by SARW and IMD\, the discussions focused on the role of political parties in shaping energy policies and promoting environmental protection in the face of climate change. \nParticipants explored the potential for renewable energy in Mozambique\, emphasizing the country’s capacity for solar and hydroelectric power. The importance of a just energy transition was highlighted\, with an emphasis on empowering communities and ensuring that the benefits of natural resource exploitation are equitably shared. \nThe event also stressed the need for African countries to add value to their minerals by investing in local production of green technologies. This approach aims to reduce dependence on foreign companies and ensure sustainable development. The discussions underscored the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the critical role political parties play in leading this change. \nAs the meeting concluded\, action items were identified\, including strategies for increasing access to clean energy\, involving communities in decision-making\, and fostering an African narrative around the just transition. The event marked a pivotal step toward sustainable energy practices in Mozambique and set the stage for ongoing collaboration among stakeholders. \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/political-parties-dialogue-on-resource-extraction-development-and-climate-change-in-mozambique/
LOCATION:Maputo\, Mozambique
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240801T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240803T170000
DTSTAMP:20240828T095604Z
CREATED:20240801T111050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T095604Z
UID:2822-1722499200-1722704400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:South Africa - Activist Symposium: Building Towards Regional Solidarity in Africa
DESCRIPTION:The Centre for Applied Legal Studies and the Right2Protest Project are pleased to announce the Second Annual Activist Symposium themed “Building Regional Solidarity Against Repression in Africa” in partnership with Digital Society Africa and Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW)\, and the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Africa (CASA)\, are pleased to announce the Second Annual Activist Symposium themed “Building Regional Solidarity Against Repression in Africa.” This event will take place from 1-3 August 2024 in Johannesburg\, South Africa\, and aims to unite activists from across the continent to address the escalating challenges posed by repressive regimes. \nAfrica is experiencing a concerning rise in repressive tactics that stifle dissent and undermine democratic principles. From internet shutdowns and arbitrary arrests to Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP suits) and the erosion of the freedom of association\, activists are under siege. This symposium seeks to provide a platform for activists to share experiences\, develop strategies\, and build solidarity to counter these threats. \nThe event will feature workshops\, panel discussions\, and networking opportunities\, focusing on regional trends of repression\, effective response strategies\, mental wellness\, and digital security. A highlight will be the launch of the Anti-repression Activist Toolkit\, a comprehensive resource designed to equip activists with practical tools and knowledge to protect themselves and their work. \nBy fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing\, the symposium aims to establish regional working groups to address the ongoing challenges faced by activists. \nFor more information about the symposium\, please contact: \nFrom the Right2Protest Project: \nOmhle Ntshingila: Omhle.ntshingila@wits.ac.za \nFrom the Centre for Applied Legal Studies:  \nSithuthukile Mkhize: Sithuthukile.mkhize@wits.ac.za \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/2nd-annual-activist-symposium/
LOCATION:Holiday Inn\, Rosebank\, South Africa
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240724T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240724T170000
DTSTAMP:20240828T100404Z
CREATED:20240731T161819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T100404Z
UID:2627-1721808000-1721840400@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Ghana - Defending the Defenders: Training of Climate\, Environmental\, and Human Rights Defenders on SLAPPs
DESCRIPTION:On July 24th\, 2023\, the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Africa (CASA) officially launched its West Africa chapter\, a significant expansion in its mission to combat Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). Held in Accra\, Ghana\, the event was a collaborative effort by the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW)\, CASA and Third World Network-Africa (TWN-Africa. The launch was complemented by a comprehensive training session on the newly developed Anti-SLAPP Toolkit\, designed to empower activists\, journalists\, and civil society organizations facing SLAPP suits. \nSetting the Tone: \nThe day began with a warm welcome from Claude Kabemba\, Executive Director of SARW\, who introduced CASA West Africa. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing SLAPP suits\, which are increasingly used by powerful entities to silence dissent and criticism. Yao Graham\, Coordinator of TWN-Africa\, provided a background on TWN’s role in CASA and highlighted the growing threat SLAPPs pose to free speech and public participation in the region. \nUnderstanding SLAPPs and the Anti-SLAPP Toolkit:  \nMonica Mbugua\, Research and Policy Officer at SARW\, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the nature and implications of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) during the launch of the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Africa (CASA) in West Africa. She highlighted the growing use of SLAPPs across Africa\, where powerful corporations and individuals deploy these legal actions to silence critics\, including activists\, journalists\, and community leaders\, by burdening them with expensive and time-consuming legal battles. Mbugua explained that these lawsuits\, often lacking substantial legal grounds\, are designed to intimidate and financially exhaust the defendants\, thereby suppressing public criticism and participation. \nShe emphasized the detrimental impact of SLAPPs on democratic values\, noting that they undermine free speech\, Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC)\, deter civic engagement\, and weaken the capacity of civil society to hold powerful entities accountable. Research conducted by SARW and CASA has revealed a troubling rise in such cases across Africa\, reflecting a broader trend of shrinking civic space and increasing threats to freedom of expression on the continent. \nTo counter these challenges\, SARW developed the Anti-SLAPP Toolkit\, a comprehensive resource providing practical strategies for identifying and combating SLAPPs. The toolkit includes guidance on legal defenses\, advocacy tools\, and strategies for mobilizing community and legal support. Thuli Zulu\, Advocacy and Research Officer at the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS)\, introduced the Anti-SLAPP Toolkit during the event. This toolkit\, developed in collaboration with CALS\, SARW\, and other stakeholders\, offers practical strategies and legal resources to identify\, resist\, and combat SLAPP suits. \nThe training session included interactive components such as role-playing exercises\, group discussions\, and practical demonstrations\, equipping participants with the skills needed to effectively use the toolkit. The session emphasized the importance of recognizing SLAPPs early\, understanding the legal rights and protections available\, and mobilizing support networks to resist intimidation. This initiative not only supports individuals and organizations targeted by SLAPPs but also strengthens the broader movement for democratic governance and social justice across the region. The launch of CASA in West Africa marks a significant step in building a regional network dedicated to protecting public watchdogs and advocates\, promoting legal reforms\, and ensuring a robust defense of free speech and public participation. \nBuilding a Collaborative Framework: \nIn the afternoon\, the focus shifted to establishing a working group for CASA West Africa. This segment\, moderated by Yao Graham\, encouraged participants to discuss strategies for regional cooperation and to identify potential members and partners. The session also reiterated the introduction of the Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance\, inviting stakeholders to join and contribute to this new initiative.  \nConclusion and Call to Action: The event concluded with a call for solidarity and action. Claude Kabemba and other speakers highlighted the importance of joining CASA\, not just to resist SLAPPs but to promote corporate accountability and environmental justice across Africa. Participants were encouraged to actively engage with CASA\, utilize the Anti-SLAPP Toolkit\, and continue advocating for free speech and public participation​ \n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/defending-the-defenders-training-of-climate-environmental-and-human-rights-defenders-on-slapps/
LOCATION:Accra\, Ghana\, Ghana
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240723T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240723T170000
DTSTAMP:20240828T100503Z
CREATED:20240711T153040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T100503Z
UID:2392-1721721600-1721754000@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Ghana - Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Report Launch
DESCRIPTION:[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]On July 23rd\, 2024\, the Ghana ASM (Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining) Report was launched in Accra\, Ghana. The event\, organized by Trust Africa in collaboration with SARW\, marked a significant milestone in addressing the challenges and opportunities within Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector. In addition to the report launch\, the event introduced the Pamoja Critical Minerals Alliance (PCMA)\, a new initiative focused on promoting sustainable practices and responsible governance in the critical minerals sector across Africa. \nKey Findings and Discussions: The Ghana ASM Report highlights several key areas of concern\, including environmental degradation\, regulatory challenges\, and the social impacts of artisanal mining. The report calls for stronger regulatory frameworks\, formalization of the ASM sector\, and greater community involvement in decision-making processes. \nEnvironmental and Social Impacts: The discussions emphasized the need for sustainable mining practices to mitigate environmental damage and address social issues such as poor working conditions and child labour. The report also stressed the importance of safeguarding community rights and ensuring that the benefits of mining activities are equitably shared. \n\n	The Status of Domestication of the Africa Mining Vision in Ghana: The Case of Artisanal and Small-scale Mining\n \n\n	Policy Brief - Status of Domestication of Africa Mining Vision in Ghana's ASM Sub-Sector\n \n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/ghana-conference-empowering-environmental-justice-and-artisanal-mining/
LOCATION:Accra\, Ghana\, Ghana
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240627T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240628T170000
DTSTAMP:20240828T100438Z
CREATED:20240704T074401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T100438Z
UID:2365-1719475200-1719594000@www.sarwatch.co.za
SUMMARY:Botswana - High-Level Dialogue on Mineral Resources Governance
DESCRIPTION:In June\, leaders and key stakeholders from across Africa gathered in Gaborone for the inaugural High-Level Dialogue on Mineral Resources Governance in Africa. Co-organized by the Government of Botswana and Idea\, and in partnership with SARW\, UNDP\, APRM\, and AMDC\, this critical meeting focused on leveraging Africa’s vast mineral wealth responsibly and sustainably. \nCritical Sessions Discussed: \n\nState of Mineral Resource Governance in Africa: Current practices and future directions.\nAdvancements in Exploration: Techniques for enhanced mineral resource mapping.\nBuilding Capacities: Strategies for effective mineral resource contract negotiation.\nRevenue Management: Optimal practices in mineral resource governance.\nCommunity Benefits: Models for enhancing community gains from mineral exploitation.\nLegislative Best Practices: Cross-jurisdictional frameworks for improved governance.\nIndustrial Development: Leveraging minerals for broader economic growth.\nGlobal Framework Integration: Incorporating African experiences into the UN’s Just Transition agenda.\n\n[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://www.sarwatch.co.za/event/high-level-dialogue-on-mineral-resources-governance-botswana/
LOCATION:Gaborone\, Botswana
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END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR