Rituals and Residues

Abstract

The intricate relationship between water appropriation, human settlement dynamics, and cultural practices is exemplified in the case of the Klip River in South Africa. This 120-kilometer river, a major tributary of the Vaal River, has been significantly altered by human activities over the past century, particularly due to gold mining in the Witwatersrand region. The consequences of mining, including acid mine drainage and heavy metal pollution, have led to challenges in water quality and ecosystem collapse along the Klip River and its wetland network, impacting downstream areas including the Vaal River and its barrage system. Despite these environmental threats, religious practices such as river baptisms persist along the banks of the Klip River, demonstrating the enduring socio-cultural significance of water despite its compromised state. This paper proposes a novel approach to understanding the intersection of mining-induced alterations to water systems and socio-cultural practices by tracing the trajectory of toxicity along the Klip River. By utilizing diverse sources including archival data, scientific literature, and contemporary accounts, the study aims to geolocate and analyze the impact of mining pollution on the river and its surrounding environment, juxtaposed with the continuation of religious rituals along its banks. This interdisciplinary approach integrates insights from environmental and social sciences, shedding light on the complex interplay between human activities, ecological degradation, and cultural resilience in shaping the Klip River landscape.