The mine hosting community of Nyakallong has no choice but to prepare themselves for postmining economy

Thabang Thembani

The biggest economic activity in Nyakallong has always been the four Mines that surround the
township of Nyakallong. These mines provided jobs and helped with community development
and upward social mobility of the community. Since the 1990s these mines have been shutting
down – starting with Jeanette Mine, number 2 and Number 3. Leaving only number 1 in
operation.
The controversial challenge the society is facing is what’s going to happen to them should the
remaining mine close down. Since then it has been the biggest economic contributor remaining.
I had an interview with Mme Ralethohlane, a prominent member of the community of
Nyakallong about the history of Nyakallong and the experience of having the mines that
surround it. This is what she had to say
“We had hoped for a better future when we came here. My husband had just assumed work at
number 3 mine. We were so happy that at least we were going to have a better life and plan for
the future. But when number 3 mine shut down, my husband had to look for greener pastures in
Rustenburg. The closure of the mines in this town has left me feeling lonely and miserable”
The closure of the mines did not only damage the economic fabric of society but also the social
fabric of the society. Where most families are left without father figures because of a lack of
employment opportunities in Nyakallong.Since the majority of people are unemployed there is
an important conversation that the community needs to start now to prepare us for a postmining
economy. We need to be honest that community corporations and community development
centers should be prioritized for the entire community to be armed for the postmining economy.