Author: Staff Writer
Willowvale, Eastern Cape
As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainable local economic development, ASPIRE has begun its stakeholder engagement work in partnership with Impact Africa, a JSE-listed and HCI-owned oil and gas exploration company.
This initiative forms part of exploration efforts in Block 2, which spans from Ngqushwa to Mbizana. ASPIRE has been appointed by Impact Africa to lead engagements in Ngqushwa, Mnquma, and Great Kei, while other consultants will lead engagement in other affected areas by the exploration license.
In line with our values of inclusion and respect for traditional authority, Chief Nkosi Mavuso lead a delegation to introduce the consulting teams to affected Kings and Traditional Leaders. The two-day stakeholder engagement meeting started at Mngqesha Royal House and concluded with King Sigcawu of the Xhosa Kingdom with broader engagements set to continue.
As a champion of the Oceans Economy, ASPIRE believes the oil and gas sub-sector holds transformative potential for our region, the province and the country in its drive to industrialisation of the economy. We view this as a critical opportunity to create jobs, build skills, and boost local economy and ownership of our natural resources.
We call on all communities to come in their numbers to listen to experts and industry leaders to understand better about oil and gas, ask questions and discuss their concerns about oil and gas development. These engagements will provide opportunities for communities to engage and learn about the industry. Together, let’s shape a future that benefits us all
