Residents from the Sporong informal settlement in Randfontein, west of Johannesburg, have raised serious concerns about the living conditions at a local community hall where they have been sheltering for the past two weeks.
Approximately 500 residents relocated to the Randgate community hall after fleeing alleged violence and intimidation linked to illegal mining activities in the area. Since their displacement, residents say the shelter has become severely overcrowded and lacks adequate hygiene standards.
Those staying at the hall report that they are forced to share limited space with individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, raising fears of potential health risks. Many residents have expressed frustration and distress, saying the conditions are undignified and unfit for long-term habitation.
Some residents said they never imagined being forced to live under such circumstances in their own country, describing the situation as both traumatic and dehumanising.
Meanwhile, African Transformation Movement (ATM) Member of Parliament Vuyo Zungula has condemned the growing impact of illegal mining, describing it as a highly organised and violent criminal enterprise. He warned that communities across the country are being destabilised, with families displaced and entire neighbourhoods left vulnerable.
Zungula said women and children are often the most affected, forced to abandon their homes due to fear and intimidation. He called for immediate intervention, including stronger security measures, emergency humanitarian assistance, and a clear, binding plan to permanently resettle affected communities.
Authorities have yet to confirm when displaced residents will be relocated to safer and more suitable accommodation, as calls for urgent action continue to mount.
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