- Civil society groups question alignment between energy deals and South Africa’s international legal stance.
- Israeli owned Navitas Petroleum set to take 37.5% stake and operatorship in Block 1 CBK.
- Concerns raised over climate commitments and impacts on coastal communities.
Environmental justice organisation The Green Connection has issued an open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa raising concerns about reports that Israeli owned Navitas Petroleum LP is poised to become operator of offshore oil and gas exploration Block 1 CBK in the Orange Basin off South Africa’s west coast.
The organisation says the proposed deal raises questions about whether South Africa’s commercial decisions are consistent with its international position on Israel and Palestine, including its ongoing case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The letter has been endorsed by 35 civil society organisations, with support continuing to grow.
Lisa Makaula, Advocacy Lead at The Green Connection, said the organisation is not calling for the transaction to be rejected but is urging government to provide clear political and policy direction on commercial engagement involving Israeli owned companies while legal proceedings continue at the ICJ.
Block 1 CBK is the northernmost offshore block on South Africa’s west coast, stretching about 250 km along the maritime border with Namibia and covering around 19907 sq km. Reports indicate that Navitas Petroleum, through its African subsidiary, has agreed to acquire a 37.5% participating interest from Eco Atlantic. If finalised, Navitas and Eco Atlantic will each hold 37.5%, while OrangeBasin Energies will retain 25%.
South Africa filed its case against Israel at the ICJ in December 2023, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention. The court has since issued provisional measures requiring Israel to prevent prohibited acts, allow humanitarian assistance and avoid actions that could lead to the destruction of Palestinians in Gaza.
Makaula said the issue extends beyond a single transaction, noting that South Africa gained global recognition for seeking accountability through international law.
The organisation also argues that the proposed deal conflicts with South Africa’s commitments under the Just Energy Transition Partnership, which aims to shift the country toward cleaner energy rather than expand offshore oil and gas development.
Neville van Rooy, Outreach Coordinator at The Green Connection, said offshore developments often place disproportionate risks on small scale fishing communities while delivering limited benefits. He added that decisions affecting marine resources are frequently made without meaningful input from affected communities.
In its letter, The Green Connection calls on the Presidency to ensure a lawful and transparent policy framework governing commercial engagement with Israeli owned entities, aligned with constitutional values, international obligations and foreign policy commitments.
Makaula said any decision under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act must be taken transparently and in line with South Africa’s legal and ethical commitments. She added that the outcome would reflect on the country’s credibility and its commitment to human rights and international law.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
