Young leaders from Khutsong are stepping up on a national stage to fight for the rights and interests of communities affected by mining operations. One such leader is Itumeleng Mashilane, who was recently elected as the national coordinator of the youth division of MACUA (Mining Affected Communities United in Action), known as YAMUA.

MACUA is an international movement that advocates for social justice, community empowerment, and corporate accountability in mining-affected areas. Its youth wing, YAMUA, focuses on empowering young people to demand access to fair opportunities and community development in mining regions.

Mashilane, who also coordinates the local YAMUA branch in Merafong, says the organisation is growing rapidly. “We only started with a few members in 2023, but now we have 175 young people between the ages of 18 and 35 who are part of us,” he said.

He pointed out the contradiction in the Merafong region: “Although we have the deepest mine in the world here, we also have some of the poorest people. The mines in our area are not perfect.”

YAMUA is currently focused on educating young people about Social and Labour Plans (SLPs) — legally binding documents that mining companies must submit to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. These plans outline how mines will benefit workers and local communities through commitments such as skills development, local hiring, infrastructure projects, and environmental protection.

Mashilane and his team are actively planning several marches to local mines, demanding accountability and transparency. YAMUA members also regularly participate in regional and national activism, including campaigns for the rights of artisanal miners and efforts to secure dignified burials for miners killed in conflicts, such as the 2024 Stilfontein police standoff.

Young people interested in joining or learning more about YAMUA in Merafong can contact the local secretary, Boitumelo Ramokwateng, at 067 747 6410.