In the new play Isitha Sabantu, Mam Nomsa, portrayed by Mpume Mthombeni, battles against a coal mine expansion, facing a divided community and threats to her family.
Fikile Ntshangase, an environmental activist, was tragically murdered in 2020 for opposing a coal mine near Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park. Her death remains unsolved, and many believe it was tied to her efforts to unite the community against the mine. Her story is the inspiration behind Isitha Sabantu, which premiered at the Market Theatre on March 8. This production comes from Empatheatre, known for tackling social justice through theatre.
Musician Syabonga Majozi contributes his talent as part of the performance in Isitha Sabantu.
This musical drama combines puppetry and traditional songs to discuss vital issues like land rights and the climate crisis. It reveals the challenges faced by environmental activists, particularly those in rural areas where threats are common. The creative team’s research involved extensive interviews with activists, some currently in hiding due to dangers they face.
Mpume Mthombeni takes center stage as Mam Nomsa, rallying her community to protect their land from the coal mine that threatens not just their homes, but their cultural heritage. As co-writer and director Neil Coppen explains, “The community is divided, and she must navigate the dangers posed by corrupt leaders while being seen as a threat by the very people she aims to help.”
Puppetry and traditional music enhance the storytelling in the play.
In recent years, threats against environmental activists have surged. According to a recent report by Global Witness, over 200 land and environmental defenders were killed worldwide in just one year. Sifiso Dladla of groundWork highlights that the threats vary, from physical danger to legal challenges that silence voices through expensive litigation.
The cast of Isitha Sabantu portrays the risks faced by the community.
The play’s production has been evolving since 2020. McGarry, an Empatheatre co-founder, noted how mining companies exploit community fractures for their own gain. “We want to shine a light on this and honor Fikile and other environmental defenders,” he said.
Mam Nomsa is shown dealing with community tensions while conducting the church choir.
Recently, Empatheatre hosted “Citizen Assemblies” at the Market Theatre, allowing mining-affected communities to share their stories. They plan to tour the production to Durban, Cape Town, and rural KwaZulu-Natal, with a European tour set for 2027.
Isitha Sabantu is on stage at the Market Theatre until March 22, 2026, offering an important narrative on the ongoing struggle of environmental activists.
Characters engage in discussions about resistance against coal mining expansion.
