NDN Staffer
RUNDU, Aug. 2 — Calgary-based oil exploration company, ReconAfrica, recently secured C$9.7 million for oil exploration in Namibia. However, the company is now facing strong criticism from civil society groups and local communities due to concerns about its drilling plans and their potential impact on the environment and climate.
The groups argue that ReconAfrica’s drilling plans pose a significant threat to one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems and conflict with climate science. The company has been accused of illegally bulldozing forests and drilling in sensitive areas, leading to the harassment and intimidation of local community activists.
These drilling plans run contrary to repeated warnings that all oil and gas exploration must halt to achieve the critical 1.5°C climate stabilization target. Furthermore, they pose a risk to the well-being of nearby communities and important biodiversity hotspots.
The Okavango Delta watershed, which supports the livelihoods of over a million people, is particularly at risk from potential pollution and water quality damage. Local communities have raised concerns about inadequate consultation under Namibian law, but their petitions to stop ReconAfrica’s activities have been rejected by the Namibian High Court, which is instead considering charging them legal fees.
Apart from environmental concerns, other groups have called for investigations into ReconAfrica’s stock listing, citing potential misrepresentations in the company’s disclosures and public communications. Additionally, the company faces an RCMP investigation over allegations of deceptive stock promotions and inadequate disclosures.
In response to the criticism, ReconAfrica has asserted that its drilling plans are fully compliant with applicable laws and regulations. The company also claims to be committed to working with local communities and stakeholders in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Despite these assurances, critics argue that ReconAfrica’s promises are insufficient. They maintain that the drilling plans carry too many risks and should be halted immediately.
The future of ReconAfrica’s drilling plans in Namibia remains uncertain, as the company intends to continue exploration activities. However, the opposition from civil society groups and local communities may present significant challenges to its plans going forward. – Namibia Daily News
