Frustrated residents of Royal Bafokeng in Rustenburg have gathered for a planned shutdown, raising grievances over unemployment and lack of local business opportunities linked to nearby mines.
Community members allege that the Bauba mine, operating in the Bojanala Platinum District, fails to hire local workers despite the region having one of South Africa’s highest unemployment rates. Protesters demand greater inclusion in employment and economic benefits from mining operations.
“We are one of the wealthiest communities globally, yet our people are not benefiting,” said one resident, highlighting poor road infrastructure and dominance of non-local companies in mining contracts.
Protesters have vowed to remain until the mine’s CEO addresses their concerns. Police are monitoring the situation as tensions persist. The demonstration underscores broader frustrations in the North West province, where mining wealth has not translated into widespread local opportunities.