Kimberley cathedral to shine blue in honour of asbestos victims

ST CYPRIAN’S Cathedral in Kimberley will be illuminated in blue on Friday, July 4, as part of Action Mesothelioma Day – a global day of remembrance for victims of mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases.

This symbolic gesture, organised by Enviro Investigations in partnership with the Glynnis Gale Foundation, aligns with international commemorations and brings much-needed attention to South Africa’s own troubled history with asbestos. 

The blue lighting aims to honour those who have died from asbestos exposure while amplifying calls for justice, accountability, and greater awareness of the ongoing risks.

South Africa was once one of the world’s top producers of asbestos, with extensive mining operations in the Northern Cape. While the industry brought profits to corporations and international markets, the communities left behind are still grappling with the devastating consequences. Areas such as Prieska, Koegas, Kuruman, Pomfret, and Penge in Limpopo remain hot spots of concern, where the health and environmental impacts of asbestos continue to manifest long after the closure of mines.

Mesothelioma, an aggressive and incurable cancer caused by inhaling asbestos fibres, has claimed thousands of lives in South Africa. One of those lives was Glynnis de Klerk, who developed the disease after being exposed to asbestos in make-up. Her story inspired the creation of the Glynnis Gale Foundation, which now works to support those affected by asbestos-related illnesses and to campaign for stronger safeguards and recognition for victims.

“This is about remembrance, but also about recognition,” said Tracey Wood for the Foundation. “We are lighting up St Cyprian’s Cathedral to say: these lives mattered, and we still have work to do.”

The initiative is not just about symbolism. Enviro Investigations continues to work on the ground, uncovering and documenting the presence of asbestos in abandoned mine tailings, deteriorating infrastructure, and even in homes, schools, and public buildings. Focusing particularly on communities in the Northern Cape, their efforts are instrumental in helping victims and their families seek legal redress, compiling evidence-based cases that connect historical exposure to present-day illnesses.

The organisation works closely with claimants, legal professionals, and medical experts to build strong compensation cases for affected individuals and families. Their mission is to hold accountable those responsible for leaving hazardous materials in vulnerable communities while empowering residents to seek justice.

“For too long, the communities affected by South Africa’s asbestos legacy have been ignored. Our work is about uncovering the truth, supporting victims in their fight for justice, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Action Meso Day is a reminder that behind every claim is a human story — and we won’t stop until those stories are heard and acted upon,” said Paul Wood, director of Enviro Investigations.

Members of the public are invited to witness the tribute at St Cyprian’s Cathedral, located on Du Toitspan Road. The lighting will begin at 5.30pm and offer a striking visual against the evening sky.

While no formal speeches or programme are planned, representatives from the Glynnis Gale Foundation and Enviro Investigations will be on site.