[3] Being the Attorney of public interest for the environment in Swaziland, Thuli has strived to guarantee that the opinions of the local community are taken into account while making decisions concerning the environment[4].Thuli is Oil Change International's senior advisor for Africa, providing strategic direction and campaign support for the organization's work in the continent.
In 2002, when this act was modified, the essence of public participation was fortified with a specific provision that mandated the inclusion of one representative from an environmental NGO in the Swaziland Environment Authority management board.
However, the first minister of environment tasked with implementing this provision chose to disregard the law and exclude NGOs.
Despite the pressure from Makama and her organization, Yonge Nawe Environmental Action Group, the minister refused to comply with the law.
The positive high court ruling has given hope to the local communities living near privately owned game reserves, that their struggles may finally be acknowledged by the appropriate authorities.