Meetings held between Lejoeleputsoa Community Enagement Structures (LCES) and mining companies have not improved job opportunities for women
Moselantja Tsoaela
In Meloding, the most affected individuals are women, many of whom are single parents responsible for caring for their families. These women often bear the brunt of the challenges in our communities, including caring for sick family members due to diseases like tuberculosis (TB) caused by the mines and other illnesses linked to dust from mining activities. If mining companies took our community’s issues seriously, it would significantly ease the burden on women as they strive to support their families. Providing job opportunities for women in the mines could greatly alleviate these community problems.
The LCES is an elected structure that represents the community’s interests to the mining companies. Unfortunately, there is a lack of transparency and no clear reports from these meetings. Instead of solutions, we receive empty promises and lies. Every town must stand up for its problems and advocate for change. It would be more effective if companies addressed issues individually.
Since January 2026, we have requested a database of job opportunities, but we are still waiting. There is also a lack of gender balance in job opportunities within these mining companies. Meanwhile, our communities continue to suffer from diseases caused by mining, such as water contamination and dust, which also harm our plants. It feels as if we are not beneficiaries of this land. If the mines provided job opportunities and maintained a proper database, our communities
could experience improved living conditions. Additionally, if mining companies implemented their Social Labour Plans (SLPs) effectively within the communities, it would be beneficial. Mines must ensure that dust levels are controlled by watering the area, planting trees, and applying appropriate chemicals. Furthermore, they should manage the water from their dams properly to avoid negatively impacting the community.
photos courtesy of Harmony Mine for LCES
