Southern African Justice and Peace coordinators highlight mining challenges and regional advocacy

Justice and Peace coordinators from Botswana, Eswatini, and South Africa discussed the social and environmental impacts of mining during a regional workshop in Pretoria from October 12 to 16, 2026. Organized by the Inter-Regional Meeting of the Bishops of Southern Africa (IMBISA) at the Padre Pio Retreat Centre, the meeting focused on helping religious leaders advocate for socio-political, economic, and environmental issues.

Philani Mkhize of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference (SACBC) Commission for Justice and Peace described how the Church supports communities affected by mining operations. Mkhize noted that this work began in 2010 following an invitation from a community in Ingwavuma impacted by a coal mine. The Commission now also assists former miners suffering from occupational lung diseases, such as black lung disease.

The coordinators emphasized that addressing the consequences of mining requires community involvement, accountability, and regional cooperation to protect human dignity and the environment. Other topics examined during the workshop included xenophobia, human trafficking, climate change, and democratic participation.