Residents demand jobs and business opportunities at Annesley
GA MALEPE
Mining operations at Imerys Annesley Andalusite were a bit halted on Monday morning. The disturbances came after angry community members from Ga Malepe village blockaded the roads leading to the mine.
The residents blocked the old Penge road (D2537) which leads to the mine at the Segorong site.
About 60 protesters alleged the mine was not adhering to the Social Labour Plan (SLP). They are also demanding permanent jobs and equal business opportunities, as they claimed to be hugely affected by Annesley.
“We have major challenges with this mine, we were promised water, but we are currently sharing water with animals,” alleged the protesters.
The villagers raised issues like lack of learnerships, and no development at their village, which is less than 5 kilometres to the mine. They also complained about some cracks on their houses caused by the operations at the mine.
“We had a committee, which was tasked to forward our grievances to the mine. It seems like they are only getting projects and tenders for their own benefit.
“They are dictators and had been at the helm since 2006. We want that forum to be disbanded and new members elected to serve our needs,” added the protesters”
Sekhukhune Times forwarded queries to the mine management on Tuesday. Unfortunately at the time of going to print, they were yet to respond.
Meanwhile, the residents vowed to continue with the protests. They demanded to meet the management of the mine.
This is a developing story, and Sekhukhune Times will keep readers updated on the progress and Annesley’s responses on the allegations raised by the Ga Malepe residents.
