Makhanda and the Eastern Cape in Peril: Indalo Exposes the Hidden Socio-Economic Impact of Albany Wind Farm

[Makhanda], [08 April 2024] — Today, the Indalo Association unveils critical revelations surrounding the proposed Albany Wind Farm, emphasising the profound threat it poses to the socio-economic fabric of Makhanda and the Eastern Cape. In a focused exposé, Indalo brings attention to the alarming realities that demand immediate consideration.

Dubious Job Creation Claims: The Indalo Association challenges the purported job creation benefits touted by the Developer, EDF Renewables, who claim that the project will generate 900 jobs. The Association contends that the majority of these jobs will be temporary and non-local, casting doubt on EDF's commitment to genuine socio-economic development in the region. EDF has confirmed that the Albany Wind Farm will only create 20 permanent jobs.

Economic Displacement Looms: The Indalo Association warns of potential economic displacement within local communities, emphasising that the Albany Wind Farm's impact on ecotourism and other regional revenue will lead to a significant reduction in private funding for biodiversity conservation. The association highlights the adverse effects on current and future jobs in nature-based tourism and related enterprises. Overall study results indicate that the average wildlife ranch employs 25 people – 15 male and 10 female – and that this is significantly more than the employment at livestock farms of the same size. In addition, an average of 18 temporary workers are also employed on a seasonal basis, of which half are typically women.

Socio-Economic Upliftment at Stake: With emphasis on the socio-economic well-being of Makhanda and the Eastern Cape, Indalo asserts that the purported benefits of the Albany Wind Farm will be clearly overshadowed by the negative consequences on existing and future community structures and businesses in the region. The association calls for a re-evaluation of the project's socio-economic promises to ensure the true upliftment of the local population and region.