Whose vision of development counts? South Africa’s Amadiba communities made maps of what matters
The Amadiba community in South Africa has successfully used 'counter-mapping' to document their land and resources to defend against unwanted industrial development. This project empowers local residents to assert their vision of land use against corporate mining and infrastructure plans.
Why it matters
This case study demonstrates how indigenous and local communities can leverage geographic data to secure legal victories and protect their ancestral lands.
The Amadiba Crisis Committee has mapped all the economic and cultural activities as well as sacred places, and areas of natural beauty. Courtesy Hali Healy Whose vision of development counts? South Africa’s Amadiba communities made maps of what matters Published: October 25, 2026 6.09am GMT https://theconversation.com/whose-vision-of-development-counts-south-africas-amadiba-communities-made-maps-of-what-matters-290034 https://theconversation.com/whose-vision-of-development-counts-south-africas-amadiba-communities-made-maps-of-what-matters-290034 Link copied Share article Share article
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South Africa’s Mpondoland , on the east coast, is known for its red sand dunes and coastal forests. Here, the Amadiba people have lived sustainably as farmers, herders and fishers for centuries, since before European colonisation.
Xolobeni , about 250 kilometres south-west of the nearest city, Durban, is an Amadiba community in Mpondoland. The community has spent several years fighting against Shell and the oil and gas exploration company Impact Africa’s plans to explore for offshore oil and gas on this part of the coastline.
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