Parliament, Saturday, 13 September 2025 – The Select Committee on Petitions and Executive Undertakings has called on community members in Umzumbe, under the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast, to avoid divisive behaviour over mining activities in the area.
The committee concluded a two-day oversight visit yesterday to Umzumbe following a petition submitted to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). The petitioner alleged that SA-Lithium mining company was disregarding regulatory requirements in its operations in Magog village.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Ofentse Moake, said the committee noted with concern serious allegations raised by the community, particularly regarding the lack of consultation and limited beneficiation from the mining operations.
“It was important for the committee to engage with both the mining company and affected community members as part of a fact-finding mission. This allows us to gather firsthand information and understand the issues on the ground. Given that the mine has plans to expand into other areas of the community, the consultation process must be significantly strengthened to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and a clear understanding of the social and economic impacts,” said Mr Moake.
During the engagement, the Director of SA-Lithium Mr Ian Harebottle, informed the committee that securing land for relocation remained a challenge, even though Inkosi yakwa Madlala had made land available. The Director explained that some community members were unwilling to move and have been asked to indicate their preferred options. The company emphasised that it does not favour monetary compensation but instead prefers relocation or the construction of houses for affected households.
Furthermore, Mr Harebottle stated that one of the company’s priorities is to safeguard existing jobs in the area, where employment opportunities remain scarce. He also noted with appreciation that SA-Lithium continues to engage with various communities affected by its operations.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC PETITIONS AND EXECUTIVE UNDERTAKINGS, MR OFENTSE MOKAE.
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E-mail: jamajozi@parliament.gov.za
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