The Marico (or Madikwe) is one of southern Africa's last pristine natural waterways, and the source of the mighty Limpopo river. The area has a rich local history, and the residents of the valley have progressively switched from farming businesses to sustainable tourism. The fertile Limpopo basin which is fed by the river is also home to about 14 million people and countless wild animals. The lands around the dolomitic springs that feed it also form part of the Bushveld Igneous complex - perhaps the richest single deposit of mineral ores on earth. In 2010, a mining firm was bending every law to start open-cast mining for platinum-group metals - a massively destructive activity that would place the river, its peoples, farms, heritage and spectacular natural environment in great danger. This short film aimed to help give a voice to concerned residents and visitors, galvanise a response and to spread public awareness of the issue. I am very happy to report that united protests and the public outcry helped to drive off the miners, push for green job creation and advocate the declaration of the area as a biosphere reserve. http://www.financialmail.co.za/business/2013/06/27/fight-for-treasured-assets-in-groot-marico - All interviews used with permission, all music owned by and used with permission of M.E.L.T. records.
