It’s all systems go, as a march gains traction in Cape Town in 2 days.
The March, organized by the African Climate Alliance (ACA) and its partners, is planned for this coming Thursday, on Human Rights Day. The group and its partners want a systems overhaul, to allow for security in the areas of energy, water, food, land, housing, gender-based violence and global solidarity.
In a statement, the ACA said it is calling South Africa’s youth, civil society, and concerned citizens to take to the streets, in a march, set to coincide with Human Rights Day, 30 years into SA’s democracy.
Demands of the activists include firstly energy justice, with no new fossil fuels to be introduced into the economy, such as coal, oil or gas. They also want no new nuclear power.
Instead they are demanding Government introduces socially-owned renewables through a just energy transition.
“Loadshedding and environmental concerns must be addressed by SA’s new draft Integrated Resources Plan and all future energy policies.”
Second on the list of demands, is what the group has termed, Water Justice. They want Government to uphold the fact that water is a human right.
“End corporate water exploitation and prioritize equitable access, sustainability, justice, anti-corruption and community-led decision making in water management and governance.”
Third on the list, is Food Justice, where the Group demands supportive policies that promote food sovereignty, allowing communities to control their food systems.
The Group wants the introduction of measures to reduce food waste and loss throughout the food supply chain.
Protect, Invest in and provide support for local food systems, including regenerative farms, farmers markets, community gardens, and urban agriculture.
Fourth on the list is for spatial Justice. The Group wants the development of affordable, safe, sustainable and climate-resilient housing and transport options for all.
Fifth on the list, is an urgent intervention to address Gender Based Violence through the establishment of systems of security and accountability for women and marginalized genders who are affected by gender based violence (GBV).
The March kicks off at 10am, in Darling Street, Cape Town in 2 days.
Picture: ACA