Latest news with #WaterisLife
North Wales Chronicle
29-04-2025
- General
- North Wales Chronicle
Bangor residents celebrate Afon Cegin river despite concerns
Over the weekend, people gathered at the river to celebrate the waterway and learn about how pollution affects the river's ecosystem. The event, which was called Dwr yw Bywyd! Water is Life!, was organised by Extinction Rebellion Bangor. The aim was to bring attention to the condition of our waterways and to urge the government to regulate the discharge of pollutants into our rivers. The walk along Lon Las Ogwen, which connects Port Penrhyn in Bangor to Bethesda and Llyn Ogwen, included a theatre with a River Goddess. It attracted attention from people concerned about the state of the rivers and the loss of species who live in them, as well as people who enjoy rivers for recreation. Alison Shaw, a retired teacher from Conwy who attended the event, said: "It was great to see so many people gather at Afon Cegin at the Lon Las cycle track to show their concern for our precious rivers. "We are asking our water companies and governments to be accountable and take proper action to protect the health of our people and ecosystems." Water Vole plaque (Image: Supplied) According to Extinction Rebellion Bangor, 66 per cent of rivers in Wales do not meet good ecological standards. Pollution poses a risk to water users by increasing the chances of contracting harmful illnesses, while sewage contamination harms natural river and ocean ecosystems and habitats. A scientific study by North Wales Rivers Trust has identified pollution from sewage, chemicals and metals in the water downstream of Llandygai Industrial Estate. This pollution harms fish and other river species, along with the wildlife and plants along the riverbank. The Afon Cegin flows into the sea, impacting both swimmers and marine life. In October 2021, the UK government voted against a proposal that would have prevented water companies from discharging waste directly into rivers and seas. The ongoing failure to effectively address sewage pollution has caused significant controversy.
The Citizen
28-04-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
‘Freedom Day represents the triumph of the human spirit over oppression'
Social activist Mamello Segale discussed the importance of Freedom Day and its impact on the lives of South Africans. 'Freedom Day represents the triumph of the human spirit over oppression. It's a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and a call to continue striving for true equality and justice,' she described. She further noted that Freedom Day (April 27) commemorates the first democratic elections in South Africa in 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era. She added that the day also emphasises the country's transition to democracy. For her, celebrating this day is essential because it reminds people of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve equality. She stated that it inspires ongoing activism and advocacy for social justice, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom are not forgotten. Growing up, I saw the impact of systemic inequality on my community. Witnessing injustices and hearing stories of resilience sparked my passion for activism. 'I wanted to contribute to creating a more just and equitable society. Freedom Day's legacy reminds me of the power of collective action and the importance of holding leaders accountable. It motivates me to continue fighting for the rights of marginalised communities and pushing for systemic change,' Mamello expressed. She explained that her grandparents were involved in the struggle against apartheid, and their stories of resilience and sacrifice inspired her to continue their work. 'Their experiences shaped my understanding of the importance of freedom and equality. They were staying at Bekkersdal when Winnie Mandela came with the Xhosa,' she said. Even though it was a long struggle against inequality, Mamello explained that some challenges persist in fully achieving freedom, including poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare. She added that systemic issues like corruption and state capture also threaten the progress made towards freedom and equality. While progress has been made, there's still much work to be done. The ideals of equality, justice, and democracy are not yet fully realised. 'Continued activism and advocacy are necessary to push for their full implementation. 'To engage the youth, I share stories of the struggle for freedom, highlighting the role young people played. I also emphasise the importance of their continued involvement in shaping the country's future and ensuring the realisation of freedom and equality. Community organising is crucial. It empowers communities to take action, builds solidarity, and pushes for systemic change. By working together, communities can keep the spirit of Freedom Day alive and continue striving for a more just society,' she said. Mamello is involved in various awareness campaigns such as access to education, the Justice for Cwecwe movement, and Water is Life. 'Let us honour the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom by continuing to strive for a society that is truly free and equal for all. Let us work together to address the challenges we still face and build a brighter future for generations to come,' she concluded. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
