Assessing the role of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in addressing the socio-economic mining challenges in Phalaborwa Community of Limpopo Province

Abstract

The purpose of the research was to assess the role of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in addressing socio-economic mining challenges in Phalaborwa community of Limpopo Province. Semi – structured interviews were used for the officials of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality, officials of Phalaborwa Mining Company, Foskor mine, Sasol Nitro, Department of Health and Social Department and Community members to collect data. Not much research has been conducted in this field especially in the Limpopo Province. From the literature review, it was detected that historically, South Africa has been primarily dependent on mineral and energy production and export. Mining sector is considered as the starting point for socio-economic development and beneficiation of the local communities in every country. South Africa is still a developing country with high rate of illiteracy, poverty and unemployment. This situation was also worsened by the policy of segregation during the past government with no opportunities for black people in the decision making house. Therefore the establishment of the three spheres of government by the constitution of the Republic of South Africa exposed the local sphere with new challenges of governance, especially in administration and management of the mines. It is evident that natural resources are the most important international commodities and thus play a major role in the socio-economic development of the communities. The study also aimed to assess the challenges and problems the local municipality faces in administration and management of the impact of the mines towards local communities. The effect of mining closures and employee retrenchment has an administrative effect on the local authority towards service delivery and social development.Thus, an interview was conducted with various interviewees to attain the goals of the study. The main patterns that resurface from the data collected exposes lack of monitoring and evaluation on projects by the municipality and the mines. iii Inefficiency and ineffectiveness of local government is compromised. Projects are agreed upon during stakeholders’ forum but implementation is difficult to attain. It would be advisable for the government, especially municipalities to take a lead in all socio-economic responsibilities of the community in conjunction with other key partners.