Empowering Mining-Affected Communities: A Two-Day Workshop on Rights Awareness and Economic Opportunities

Day 1: Building Legal Awareness and Community Engagement

The workshop opened with Monica Mbugua (SARW) leading a foundational session on understanding legal rights in mining communities. Participants engaged deeply with SARW’s Community Rights Booklet, grounding discussions in a rights-based approach to mining governance.

Next, Disree Malaka (SCMAC) shared inspiring case studies on sustainable business models and community-driven renewable energy, highlighting the innovative Sekhukhune Social Ownership Project that blends environmental stewardship with economic agency.

The afternoon brought robust conversations facilitated by Tatenda Muponde (CER) around strengthening community participation in mining decision-making, underscoring practical legal tools to enhance accountability.

The day concluded with an action-planning session, led by Gerson Mendes (SARW), where participants outlined key next steps and priorities for ongoing capacity building—setting the stage for transformative local action.

Day 2: Unlocking Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Futures

Day two began with reflections from Gerson Mendes and participants, connecting insights from Day 1 with a forward-looking lens.

Dr. Michael Rudolph (UJ) delivered a comprehensive overview of economic opportunities within the mining sector, touching on post-mining strategies and sustainable livelihood research critical for long-term community resilience.

The session on Social and Labour Plans (SLPs), facilitated by Jaqueline Rukanda (Natural Justice), sparked dynamic dialogue on the role of SLPs as powerful instruments for community investment, development, and accountability. Her emphasis on community-led monitoring resonated strongly, emphasizing grassroots agency in governance.

Finally, Dr. Suzall Timm (UJ) challenged participants to confront economic exclusion and mobilise civic organising around rights-based advocacy frameworks, calling for structural change to address systemic inequalities.

The workshop closed with a collaborative reflection led by Monica Mbugua, where renewed commitments were made, and strategic engagement pathways mapped out—cementing a shared vision of solidarity and empowerment.

Looking Ahead: Collective Power for Lasting Impact

This workshop showcased the strength of collective knowledge, collaboration, and strategic action in advancing the rights and economic agency of mining-affected communities. The tools, insights, and networks developed during these two days will serve as a vital foundation for ongoing advocacy and community empowerment across the region.

SARW remains dedicated to supporting this momentum, driving forward a future where mining communities are not only heard but are active architects of their sustainable development.