Mmaditlhokwa profile

Aubrey Winfried Thobejane

The Mmaditlhokwa community is located in Marikana, Northwest Province in South Africa. This community was relocated to make way for the mining operations of Tharisa Minerals. The relocation was controversial, as it was reported that there was no proper consultation with the community before their displacement. The farmers who previously resided in the area were able to purchase new farms in another location, but the black community was relocated without receiving any form of compensation.

Upon relocation, the community was housed in substandard zinc shacks which did not offer adequate living conditions. Additionally, their furniture was reportedly damaged during the relocation process. The community continues to face challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and a lack of access to basic amenities such as healthcare and education.

The Mmaditlhokwa community’s story highlights the ongoing struggle of marginalized communities in South Africa, who are often forced to make way for mining operations without proper consultation and compensation. This situation underscores the need for greater transparency, accountability, and a more equitable distribution of resources in the mining industry.