Women’s Representation in Morapaneng and Ditwebeleng Villages
Victoria Makgoo / Sekhukhune Environmental Justice Network
Morapaneng and Ditwebeleng villages, located in Sekhukhune, Burgersfort, within Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality, were once peaceful communities free from environmental harm. However, the arrival of mining operations has drastically changed the landscape. The area is now surrounded by 39 mines, 50 shafts, and 10 open-cast mines, yet these operations offer little to no benefit to the local community.
As a community-based organization, Sekhukhune Environmental Justice Network has actively engaged with residents on critical issues, including women’s representation in decision-making spaces. Through campaigns and discussions, we’ve highlighted how mining and environmental issues, such as water access and climate change, affect women disproportionately.
Despite South Africa’s commitment to 50% representation of women in decision-making positions, as outlined in the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, the reality in our community is starkly different. Women are systematically excluded from participating in mining tenders and decision-making meetings. These spaces remain male-dominated, where women’s voices are often ignored or dismissed.
Many women in our community fear standing up and speaking out, doubting whether they will receive support. They struggle with self-belief, reinforced by years of marginalization. Attendance at community meetings is low among women because they feel their contributions will not be taken seriously, especially when male attendees fail to support or acknowledge their concerns.
Action Steps
To address the issue of women’s representation, we must collaborate with other gender justice organizations to develop workable and sustainable solutions. Some key approaches include:
- Building women’s confidence through leadership and advocacy training.
- Creating safe spaces where women can voice concerns and challenge exclusionary practices.
- Demanding policy enforcement to ensure women are actively involved in mining-related decision-making.
- Holding mining companies accountable for inclusive and transparent community engagements.
Women should not be invisible in discussions about mining, land, and environmental justice. Their leadership is essential in shaping a fair and sustainable future for our communities.
