Dr Desmond D'Sa, a prominent environmental activist from South Africa, has died in a tragic road accident on Thursday morning. The accident occurred between Umzinto and Park Rynie at approximately 6.20 am, claiming the lives of three people. D'Sa was a recipient of the prestigious 2014 Goldman Environmental Prize, often referred to as the Green Nobel Prize, for his tireless advocacy for environmental justice.
According to Bongani Mthembu, a Durban-based environmental activist who worked closely with D'Sa, the environmentalist was travelling from his home in Ixopo to his office in Wentworth when the accident occurred. The vehicle was involved in a collision with a tractor after its trailer became detached. Mthembu described the accident as horrific, stating that the driver of the vehicle tried to avoid colliding with the trailer, but ultimately hit the big wheel of the tractor.
D'Sa was widely recognised for his work championing environmental justice and campaigning against industrial pollution in Durban's South Durban Basin. As a founder of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance, he spent decades challenging major industries over air pollution and its impact on the health and well-being of surrounding communities. His dedication to environmental causes has earned him numerous accolades, including the Goldman Environmental Prize.
The South Durban Basin has been heavily industrialised, with numerous refineries, chemical plants, and other industries operating in the area. D'Sa's campaigns against industrial pollution have been instrumental in raising awareness about the health risks associated with air pollution in the region. His work has had a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people living in the area.
Mthembu described D'Sa's death as a blow to the environmental community, stating that he had dedicated his life to environmental causes. D'Sa's passing has sent shockwaves through the environmental community, with many paying tribute to his tireless advocacy and commitment to environmental justice.
The identities of the two others who died in the accident have not been confirmed. The accident is a tragic reminder of the risks faced by activists working in areas with high levels of industrial activity. D'Sa's legacy will continue to inspire environmental activism in South Africa and beyond.
The incident highlights the need for improved road safety measures and greater accountability from industries operating in areas with high levels of traffic. An investigation into the accident is likely to be conducted to determine the cause of the collision and identify measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key points
- Dr Desmond D'Sa was a recipient of the 2014 Goldman Environmental Prize.
- The accident occurred between Umzinto and Park Rynie at approximately 6.20 am.
- D'Sa was widely recognised for his work championing environmental justice and campaigning against industrial pollution.
