Dozens of workers and service providers have been camped outside the Blesboklaagte Coal Mine in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga for the past seven days, demanding unpaid salaries and outstanding payments. Some claim they have not been paid since August 2024, while others say they were abruptly terminated without receiving their dues.
Unfulfilled Promises and Financial Struggles
One affected worker shared his frustration, stating that despite being promised payment by December, he has yet to receive his earnings. “They sent me an email terminating my contract, but I thought I would at least get my monthly payments. They didn’t pay, and now I’m struggling with bills and school fees,” he said.
A service provider, owed approximately R135,000, revealed that he had been supplying the mine with essential services—including lighting, water, and sanitation—using his own money. “Every month, I submit invoices, but they keep changing the story. They tell us they don’t have money. It’s very hard for us,” he said.
Failed Negotiations and Broken Agreements
Despite meetings with mine management, workers and contractors say no payments have been made. “They promised to pay all outstanding amounts by the end of November, but nothing happened. That’s why we decided to come here and shut the mine down,” one protester explained.
The mine has reportedly been placed under business rescue, but efforts to appoint business rescue practitioners have been unsuccessful. Meanwhile, the protesters have vowed to remain camped outside the mine until they receive their money.
Ongoing Standoff
With no resolution in sight, the standoff continues as workers and service providers grow increasingly desperate. Many say they can no longer afford basic necessities, including school fees and household expenses.
Local authorities have yet to intervene, leaving the protesters to sustain their vigil in hopes of forcing the mine to settle its debts.
