WESTERN CAPE, South Africa - Communities affected by mining operations across Africa gathered today in Western Cape to protest against what they describe as ongoing exploitation of natural resources that leaves environmental devastation and social upheaval in its wake.
The demonstration coincided with the final day of the mining conference in Western Cape, where mining companies and government officials have been meeting to discuss investment opportunities. Protesters aimed to highlight the disconnect between corporate profits and community welfare. "Our rights are just as important as the rights of those investors," said Manlakadebe, Executive Director of the Economic Justice Network of the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa. "Every time they take away our natural resources, they should look after the environment." The protesters raised particular concern about abandoned mines, which they say are often left as dangerous open pits that threaten livestock and human safety. They also highlighted the plight of artisanal and small-scale miners, who are frequently pushed into informal and dangerous working conditions when large mining operations shut down.
The issue has taken on renewed urgency following a recent tragedy in South Africa where 87 people lost their lives, a disaster that protesters attribute to government negligence and lack of support for small-scale miners. Similar challenges are reported across the continent, with particular concerns in Ghana and the Democratic Republic of Congo. "Mining has pushed people further into poverty," Manlakadebe explained. "We have no idea who owns those minerals or who mines them. It's chaos." The protesters are calling for several key reforms: Proper mine closure procedures to protect environmental safety Better protection of workers when mines cease operations Formal recognition and support for artisanal miners Greater transparency in mineral ownership and operations Integration of human rights considerations into mining investments The demonstration highlights growing tensions between African communities and international mining interests, as local populations increasingly demand a greater share of benefits from their natural resources and stronger environmental protections.
"Our continent has been plundered, but that profit goes to nameless people in countries that we don't even know, who have a much closer relationship with our natural resources than we do," Manlakadebe concluded.
The mining conference organizers were not immediately available for comment on the protesters' demands.