As a result of SDCEA’s organised resistance over many years, the organisation was in discussion with Transnet, of which the final outcome was this latest announcement. This is an important victory for SDCEA and the communities it represents, as it means retention of the community space as a residential zone, and no displacement of residents and workers such as the old Durban airport farmers.

The organisation, however, has come out stating that the fight for a community-driven development model in south Durban is far from over.

According to SDCEA’s Coordinator, Desmond D’sa, “Whilst this victory brings us a substantial amount of satisfaction in the short term, we must still consider this project a long term struggle for the communities of south Durban. SDCEA will continue to put pressure on the relevant authorities to ensure that the dig-out port does not ever happen.”

Transnet has verbally stated that the 16 farmers that have been working on the old Durban airport land for 30 years will be secured another decade. SDCEA has, however, requested a formal written document be drawn up. SDCEA continues to fight for the farmers’ rights to maintain their livelihood on the airport land.

“Farming is our livelihood, it is out basic survival and we do not know of anything else we can do if this is taken away from us,” explains Siga Govender, Chairperson of the Airport Farmers’ Association.

“The potential negative impact on the environment and communities from the proposed port development and its related infrastructure outweighs the positives that have government has spoken about. We will continue to research, educate and inform, build our campaigns and stand up for people and our environment,” states D’sa.

Environmental justice organisation groundWork supports SDCEA in its campaign against the dig-out port and broader port expansion developments, where this media advisory originally appeared.