Women in the construction industry in Mpumalanga have voiced serious concerns over what they describe as mafias and extortionists who allegedly demand money in order for them to carry out their work.

The concerns were raised during the Assembly of Women in Construction at the Ehlanzeni Disaster Management Centre on Tuesday, August 19, an event hosted by the provincial government. The women represent companies involved in infrastructure projects such as building houses, roads, bridges, and health and school facilities.

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One of the speakers, Gladness Mkhonto-Msiska, said these women are particularly targeted, with many forced to abandon their businesses out of fear for their own safety and that of their families.

“Our biggest issues are mafias and extortionists. Mafias dictate how we must run projects in their areas, and extortionists demand that we pay them. Even after have we received a tender and quote according to the market, they come and demand a payment to allow us to work,” Mkhonto-Msiska said.

She alleged that she was once forced to pay R20 000 after a colleague was held hostage by an unknown group until the fee was paid. “The money we are paid is not enough because they always demand more. We are unhappy and struggling as women in construction. When we call the police, we are told there are no vehicles. We need a hotline to report such crimes,” she added.

Idah Mashego, another participant, said that extortion is often linked to local councillors and that politicians are failing to protect women in the industry. “We are already working hard for our families but are robbed of the little we earn. The government empowers us, but fails to protect us. In areas under traditional leaders, we don’t face these problems,” Mashego said.

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In response, Thulasizwe Thomo, the MEC for public works, roads and transport (PWRT), said that many cases cannot be investigated because formal reports have not been lodged with the police. “There is a working relationship between us and the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison. If cases are opened, we can assist in tracking down these mafias,” he said.

Thomo also highlighted ongoing issues, including contractors being prevented from working in certain areas.

“It cannot be that someone from Mpumalanga, working for their family, experiences a no-go area. If a person is awarded a project and is from Ehlanzeni, the community should support them,” he said.

The PWRT head of department, Muzi Mhlari, said women empowerment is a priority. “Our intention is to unlock opportunities and ensure access. This year, we are focusing on creating opportunities for women, the youth, and persons with disabilities, including woman-only panels to address these challenges.”

Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, the provincial spokesperson of the Hawks, acknowledged that while cases of extortion are being opened and investigated, they often do not match the scale of the problem. “People in construction should not be afraid to report crimes. Victims can report anonymously, and confidentiality is always maintained.”