Operating mine dam kills 35 cattle in Welkom

Lerato Matebese

On 12 January 2025, farmer Thabo Dlamini lost his entire herd of cattle, 35 animals in total, due to an unsecured acid mine dam next to the Masimong 4 mine in Welkom. There was no fence, no warning signs, and no opportunity to prevent this tragedy. Masimong 4 is an active mine, not an abandoned one. Yet, toxic substances leak into the surrounding environment while the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) remains inactive.

A licensed mine is obligated to protect life, and these lost cattle represent a failure that should never have happened. When a mine operates, safety must be a priority. The dam remains unfenced and unmarked, with green-blue water covering its surface. Livestock and people are exposed to a dangerous hazard daily. Photographs from the site revealed dead cattle, and a state veterinarian confirmed that acute heavy metal poisoning was the cause of death.

Affected communities are demanding three urgent actions: Harmony Gold mine must fence the dam within seven days, provide alternative water sources for livestock, and pay R350,000 compensation to Mr. Dlamini. Additionally, the DMRE must issue a section 94 notice and impose a fine for non-compliance.

The human cost of this incident is significant. Dlamini has lost his only source of income, leaving his eight grandchildren, who depended on the cattle for milk and school fees, vulnerable and at risk. Other farmers continue to graze livestock in the same area. If immediate action is not taken, the next victim could be a human being rather than an animal. A child drinking from the same contaminated water could face dire consequences. This is the true cost of the ongoing negligence at Masimong 4.