ENVIRONMENTAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS BY THARISA MINERALS :
Aubrey Winfried Thobejane
Aubrey Winfried Thobejane
North West province
Bojanala district
Rustenburg municipality
07 August 202
ENVIRONMENTAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS BY THARISA MINERALS :
It is with a deep sense of concern and urgency that we address the pressing issue of environmental degradation and the violation of human rights caused by Tharisa Minerals. For too long, our community has been subjected to unsustainable mining practices, environmental harm, and a blatant disregard for our well-being, all under the watchful eye of the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), which continues to fail in its regulatory duties.
**Environmental Impact**
Tharisa Minerals has inflicted untold environmental damage on our land. The mining activities have resulted in significant deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and soil erosion. Our precious rivers and water sources are being contaminated with hazardous chemicals and heavy metals, rendering them unsafe for consumption and agricultural use. The air we breathe is polluted with dust and emissions that contribute to respiratory illnesses among our children and elderly.
The ecological balance of our region has been disrupted, and the long-term consequences of these actions could be irreversible. These environmental issues not only degrade the natural landscape but also threaten the very livelihoods of the farmers and communities that depend on these resources.
*Human Rights Violations**
Beyond environmental degradation, Tharisa Minerals has been implicated in numerous human rights violations.
Moreover, many community members have faced displacement and forced evictions without fair compensation or adequate resettlement plans. These displacements destroy homes, break up communities, and leave families in dire situations without access to basic services.
*DMRE’s Inaction**
The role of the DMRE is to oversee and regulate mining activities to ensure they comply with laws and protect the interests of the people and the environment. However, it has become evident that the DMRE is turning a blind eye to these violations by Tharisa Minerals. Despite repeated complaints and cries for help from the community, there has been a conspicuous absence of enforcement of environmental regulations.
The DMRE’s failure to act against these malpractices not only emboldens Tharisa Minerals but also sends a clear message that corporate interests are prioritized over the well-being of the people and the protection of the environment. This lack of accountability fosters a culture of impunity and further perpetuates the suffering of our community.
**Call to Action**
It is imperative that we, as a community, take collective action to bring an end to these injustices. We must unite to hold Tharisa Minerals and the DMRE accountable for their actions. Here are some steps we can take:
- **Raise Awareness**: Utilize social media, community meetings, and other platforms to highlight the issues and make them known to a wider audience. The power of global awareness can exert pressure on both Tharisa Minerals and the DMRE.
- **Legal Recourse**: Seek the assistance of legal experts and human rights organizations to explore legal avenues. Filing a lawsuit against the mining company and the regulatory body could force them to take accountability.
- **Advocacy**: Engage with national and international NGOs that specialize in environmental and human rights advocacy. Their support can amplify our voices and bring more scrutiny to the situation.
