Community Rejects Proposed Mine Revival at Old Shaft 3

Khayisile Matsaba

For the first time, residents witnessed a mining company, Kongiwe, come directly to the community to ask for permission before beginning mining activities at the old Shaft 3. Instead of welcoming the proposal, many community members rejected it.

The company came to the community seeking approval before moving forward. While this could have marked the beginning of a new relationship between the mining company and local residents, the meeting instead exposed years of broken trust and unresolved community concerns. As it was for the very first time ever being asked permission for mining to take place.

As community members filled the venue, emotions ran high. Some arrived hoping to hear how the project could create much-needed jobs in an area where unemployment continues to affect many families. Others came carrying memories of the environmental damage, health problems, and social disruption that the HarmonyGold mine created. Whilst other community members were suspicious of the meeting, with many believing it was being used by the current councillor as a political campaign rather than a genuine consultation.

For many people, the issue went beyond a single mining project. It was about whether their voices would truly matter. Residents repeatedly expressed concerns that communities are often consulted only after important decisions have already been made, leaving public meetings to feel like a formality rather than an opportunity to influence outcomes.

Mr Abel  mentioned that “he is worried about the conditions we are still facing due to Voelpan and they have not been resolved, his worry is that more issues will be created leaving the community suffering whilst people enjoy money.”

Councillor Clement also commented that “ He is not using the meeting to campaign rather he saw the opportunity for developing Nyakallong hence he combined both wards which are ward 19 and 36 to partake in the meeting and later for all to get employment.

One of the Gentleman who did not want to mention his name insisted that all this was a political move by the Councillor as these are the dates to choose our next Councillor.

The rejection of the proposal does not necessarily mean the community is opposed to development. Instead, it reflects a growing demand for development that respects people.