Mine to blame, says community

The Mogalakwena Residents Association (MRA) along with other community associations as well as the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) held a peaceful march to hand over a memorandum to Platreef Resources on Wednesday.
The march was in protest about the way the mine is conducting business in Mokopane. Protesters accused Platreef of contributng to the conflict in the local municipality in exchange for water at a cheap rate.
“This means that the communities will be subsidising the mining house while its directors will be maximising the profit,” said the association.
The demands in the memorandum stated that the community does not recognise the traditional chief that Platreef negotiated with. The MRA also demands a copy of the long-term surface lease agreement stretching over 30 years and 80% of procurement to be given to the local people of Mogalakwena.
These demands are expected to be responded to within seven working days and include a halt to all operation at Platreef until community concerns are addressed as the minister of Mineral Resources, Ngoako Ramatlhodi promised.
Platreef has, on previous occassions, denied any underhand dealings with the municipality or national departments with regards to water issues.
The mine will require a workforce of about 2 200 people within the next four years.