Mining activities continue to disrupt people’s lives at Vosman Malahleni

Sbongile Masina

Irresponsible Mining Activities Threaten the community of Vosman, eMalahleni. The community of Vosman in Witbank, Mpumalanga, is facing severe environmental and health risks due to irresponsible mining activities. Residents, livestock, and wildlife are bearing the pain of neglect by mining operations, prioritizing profits over rehabilitation and safety.

Here are the key concerns:

1.⁠ ⁠Soil Intrusions: Children and livestock are exposed to hazardous, lava-like material, resulting in burns and fatalities. ​

2.⁠ ⁠Unlicensed Mining: Allegations suggest some mines operate without licenses, bribing their way out of accountability.

3.⁠ ⁠Wildfires: Unrehabilitated mine sites spark devastating wildfires, destroying natural forests and harming air quality.

4.⁠ ⁠Ecosystem Disruption: Mining activities disrupt the delicate balance of local ecosystems, threatening non-domestic animal habitats.

Statistics:

•⁠  ⁠Over 50 reported cases of burns and injuries among children and livestock. (Vosman Community Report 2022)

•⁠  ⁠20+ cattle deaths attributed to mine-related hazards. (Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs 2023)

•⁠  ⁠500+ hectares of natural forest destroyed by wildfires. (South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Fire Incident Report 2022)

•⁠  ⁠70% of residents report respiratory issues due to poor air quality. (Study on Air Quality and Health Impacts in Mining Communities, University of Witwatersrand)

We demand:

.⁠ ⁠Immediate rehabilitation of affected mine sites.

.⁠ ⁠Investigation into unlicensed mining operations.

.⁠ ⁠Implementation of stringent safety measures.

.⁠ ⁠Community engagement and compensation for damages.

The devastating impact of irresponsible mining activities in Vosman, eMalahleni demands urgent attention and collective action. We urge authorities to prioritize community well-being, environmental sustainability, and accountability. By working together, we can mitigate the harmful effects of mining and ensure a safer, healthier future for all.

References:

•⁠  ⁠Mpumalanga Provincial Government. (2022). Mining and Biodiversity Guidelines.

•⁠  ⁠South African Human Rights Commission. (2020). Report on Mining and Environmental