Residents of Thubelihle, adjacent to TNC Farm, are fuming after a recent meeting with mine representatives, who presented a letter of intent to relocate the Emalainini and Emahlathini communities.

The community has been battling the devastating effects of blasting operations, which have been wreaking havoc on their homes and lives. Despite promises of relocation, compensation, and job opportunities, residents are skeptical about the mine’s intentions.

“We’re not impressed with the mine’s promises,” said Nonduduzo Mahlangu, a resident who grew up on the farm. “We’ve been hearing the same empty promises since 2018. We need action, not words.”

The letter of intent outlines the mine’s plans to relocate the communities within the next two years, pending financial standing.

However, residents are demanding more concrete solutions to address their immediate concerns.

“We can’t wait two years for relocation,” said Mahlangu. “We need a solution that will protect our homes, health, and livelihoods now.”

Another resident who wished to stay anonymous expressed frustration with the mine’s lack of empathy. “They’re not taking our concerns seriously,” said the resident. “They’re just trying to appease us with empty promises.”

@witbanknews Residents of Thubelihle, adjacent to TNC Farm are outraged and worried about their well-being as they face a 2-year wait for relocation away from the hazardous mining activities that threaten their lives. #emalahleni #Witbanknews #Blasting #Mpumalanga #Kriel #Witbank #TNC #Fyp ♬ original sound – witbanknews

The community is calling on the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) to step in and intervene in the matter.

Since the WITBANK NEWS sent a questionnaire to the DMRE, no response has been received by the time going to print.

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