Thirteen years after the deadly Marikana massacre, residents say they have been abandoned by the government, with little to no development in their community despite past promises.
On August 16, 2012, 34 striking mine workers were shot and killed by police during a wage protest at Lonmin Platinum Mine. In the aftermath, the government pledged to improve living conditions in Marikana. However, residents say their situation has only worsened.
“A Garbage City” – Residents Describe Deteriorating Conditions
Many in Marikana express frustration over the lack of progress. One resident lamented, “Every day, every moment, Marikana goes down. Right now, it seems we are staying in a dumping city.”
Housing remains a critical issue, with poorly maintained government-built homes and sewage flooding the streets. “Our kids play in the sewer because there are no proper grounds for them,” said another resident.
Crime has also surged, leaving the community feeling unsafe. “We don’t know where the authorities are,” one resident said. “If they had power, they would come and see how we live.”
Uncompensated Families and Legal Battles Continue
The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI) revealed that despite the Farlam Commission’s recommendations, two families of the victims have yet to receive compensation.
“The state has only settled loss-of-support claims for 34 of the 36 families we represent,” a SERI representative said. “Thirteen years later, two families have received nothing.”
The organization is continuing litigation against the government, accusing officials of misleading statements about the families’ demands.
Commemoration Amid Frustration
As the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) prepares to gather at the koppie where the massacre occurred, residents say the anniversary serves as a painful reminder of broken promises.
“We are the forgotten people,” one resident said. With no significant improvements in sight, the community’s hope for change continues to fade.
