Motlhotlho residents served with eviction notice by Anglo American

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Residents at Motlhotlho outside Mokopane, Limpopo, have been served with an eviction notice by Anglo American Platinum to vacate land next to the mine.

More than 10 households still reside in Motlhotlho next to mining activities at Mogalakwena Platinum Mine.

A re-settlement process was started to resettle at least 900 families in the area more than 12 years ago.

The community has been resettled in Armoede and Extension 14 in Mokopane. 

The remaining families did not reach an agreement with the mine and have been given until July 14 to relocate. 

“The residents have received summons which indicate that within 30 days after they have received those summons they should vacate this place and if not there is going to be forced removal. They are forcefully removing us without fulfilling our demands, yet they want us to relocate, that is why I believe they are forcefully removing us.”

Meanwhile, Anglo American Platinum spokesperson Keitumetse Masike says the re-settlement talks with the remaining households have failed. 

Masike says the mine has established a community trust to help provide the eleven households with employment and educational opportunities.

“Eviction notices have been issued to the remaining in Motlhotlho and an eviction application has been launched the remaining households have all been offered temporary alternative accommodation. We invited them to engage with Anglo American Platinum with a house design of their choice it is our responsibility to ensure that the remaining households are re-settled as it will no longer be viable for them to remain in Motlhotlho beyond the end of 2024.”