ULUNDI, 1 April 2025 – The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has welcomed the judgement handed down by the Pietermaritzburg High Court on 26 March 2025. The judgement relates to the RBM mining dispute between Amakhosi of the Mkhwanazi, Dube, Mbonambi, and Sokhulu communities, and Richards Bay Mining (Pty) Ltd and Richards Bay Titanium (Pty) Ltd.
MEC Buthelezi views the judgement as a significant affirmation of the rights and authority of Amakhosi over their land. The judgement further vindicates the MEC’s assertion that amakhosi are leaders of development as direct beneficiaries of economic development on their land and cannot be wished away by mining companies.
In the judgement, the High Court dismissed with costs an application by the mining companies to vary the trust deeds of the Trusts (which are under Amakhosi) under section 13 of the Trust Property Control Act, 1998.
The MEC believes that the judgement highlights the importance of recognising the key role of Amakhosi in matters concerning land ownership, use, and the resources on that land, within their communities.
“This judgment is an indictment of the hostility and contempt with which RBM treats Amakhosi and serves as a crucial reminder to all stakeholders, including mining entities, that the authority and status of Amakhosi in regulating their own affairs, particularly with regard to land and mineral rights, must be respected and upheld,” said MEC Buthelezi.
“It is vital that mining companies recognise the authority of Amakhosi to govern their land and its resources. This recognition is not just a matter of complying with the law, but a basic need for building trust, promoting social unity, and ensuring fair development that benefits both the companies and the communities,” added MEC Buthelezi.
MEC Buthelezi has also reiterated his commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the rights and dignity of Amakhosi and their communities are preserved.
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