Finding out how students at Mosala Secondary School have been impacted by Voelpan dam

Tshepo Tsie

On July 17, 2024, I attended a meeting at Mosala Secondary School, a local high school in Nyakallong Allenridge. The school is a short distance from the Voelpan Dam, where chemicals are occasionally disposed of on the grounds.

A few years ago, the Voelpan dam began to overflow due to Harmony Target One failing to monitor the dam and releasing water containing hazardous chemicals. This water contains copper, arsenic, radon, and uranium.

“We are struggling here and no one wants to talk about how this dam has affected us as students,” stated an unnamed Mosala student.

“The stench is terrible and pervasive, especially during the summertime. When we are at school, we are unable to even breathe properly. Mosquitoes are prevalent in the classrooms, especially those that are closer to the dam.

The scent and the flying mosquitoes in the classrooms are harming the students, making it difficult for them to concentrate or learn. Students are falling ill every day as a result of these odors. The chemical from the dam is preventing the plants that the school planted from growing.

My research on radon arsenic indicates that it can be extremely hazardous and can result in cancer when inhaled. Imagine hoping and desiring a matriculation, but ending up with cancer. Is Hectic Correct? The Nyakallo Foundation and I intend to start sand cleaning as a way to address the current state of affairs at Mosala Secondary School.

Regrettably, I did not have the opportunity to discuss this matter with any educators. What is the Department of Education’s and Harmony Target One’s response?