The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), in partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases (MBOD) and other stakeholders, are rolling out an initiative to trace ex-mine workers who may be eligible for social security benefits for work-related illnesses and possible provident/pension funds due to them.

While the programme will be rolled out across the province, Phase one will start in the West Rand District due to a large concentration of mines. The MBOD database shows that there are over 2,000 ex-mine workers in the West Rand alone with unclaimed benefits, while 7500 more across Gauteng are yet to receive what is rightfully theirs.

Many of these former mineworkers left the industry without receiving social security benefits for occupational diseases such as silicosis, tuberculosis (TB), and hearing loss. This initiative aims to trace, register, and screen ex-mine workers, ensuring that those who qualify receive social security benefits including possible medical assistance.

Families of deceased mineworkers may also be eligible to claim benefits.The registration period will start on the 24 March to 4 April 2025 at designated venues across sub-districts in the West Rand.

The Department calls on ex-mine workers to visit Khutsong Ext 4 Multi-Purpose Civic Centre, Molatlhegi Hall in Kokosi, Ramosa Hall in Mohlakeng, Chief Mogale Hall in Kagiso, and Carletonville Civic Centre to register and undergo free medical screenings during the mentioned dates. To facilitate the process, attendees should bring all identification documents they have including Makhulu-skop (Mineworker’s Identity card), ID documents, and any paperwork received from their mining companies.

MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, emphasised the importance of the programme, stating that it is not just about financial compensation but about restoring dignity and justice to those who worked 1 of 2under hazardous conditions.

“Mining built this country’s economy, yet thousands of ex-mine workers were left without proper healthcare or financial support. This programme seeks to change that by ensuring they receive the assistance they rightfully deserve,” she said.

For more information on the eligibility and the registration process, exmine workers and their families can contact the MBOD Call Centre at 080 1000 240.

Alternately, the self-registration portal can be accessed on https://exmineworker.com/homeThis