The Forgotten Village Left in the Shadows of Mining Companies

Modise Tlhako

By: Modise Hlako

For decades, the village of Dominionville has been plagued by mining companies that come and go, often disregarding the laws that govern their operations. The recent claim by Roken Mining, asserting that they have purchased the mine and will soon commence operations without consulting the community, has ignited outrage and despair among residents.

This community has lived on private land for over five decades, without ever knowing true ownership. They are burdened with high electricity costs, paying R4.50 per unit, which only deepens their poverty. With 97% of the community unemployed and relying on social grants, the situation is dire.

The lack of adequate housing, services, and infrastructure has left the community isolated, with no relief in sight. The government’s hands appear tied due to the private property status of the land, leaving residents to fend for themselves. Although mining companies promise to improve the lives of South Africans, in Dominionville, they have only brought suffering and neglect.

Desperate for survival, the community has been forced to engage in “zama-zama” mining. How can we trust a system that fails to protect its people? The constitution guarantees basic rights such as access to water, electricity, education, and shelter, but in Dominionville, these remain mere luxuries.

The story of Dominionville is a cry for help, highlighting the fact that some communities continue to be left behind in our democracy. It is time for the government and mining companies to take responsibility and ensure that the rights of the people are upheld.