Mpumalanga family seeks R4 million from Mafube mine over alleged blasting damage to home

A family in Mpumalanga is taking legal action against Mafube coal mine, demanding R4 million in compensation after claiming years of nearby blasting left their home severely damaged.

The dispute has been ongoing for nearly a decade and has reignited debate over the impact of mining operations on communities living close to extraction sites.

Eight-year dispute heads to court

The Mahlangu family says problems began in 2018, when mining activities commenced near their homestead on a farm outside Middelburg.

According to the family, repeated blasting caused cracks to develop throughout the property, with parts of the structure eventually beginning to collapse.

They allege the mine failed to relocate them or assist in rebuilding the damaged home despite repeated complaints.

Government report highlights concerns

The family’s case has gained momentum following findings by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).

According to a departmental report, cracks appeared in the Mahlangu family’s home after blasting operations were conducted at the mine.

The report also noted that a pre-split blast carried out on 27 March 2026 was not monitored.

Instead of measuring vibrations at the Mahlangu property itself, investigators found the mine had relied on readings from a permanent monitoring station located at another residence.

The department subsequently recommended that Mafube install a permanent monitoring station at the family’s homestead to record:

• Ground vibrations
• Air overpressure (airblast)
• Dust generated during blasting

These measurements would help determine whether mining activities are directly affecting the property.

Family says mine refused to help

Family spokesperson Themba Mahlangu said the mine declined to provide assistance because it argued the property falls outside its designated operational area.

He disputes that claim.

According to Mahlangu, the homestead is situated less than one kilometre from the mining activities, and he alleges the distance was calculated using road access rather than the actual proximity between the mine and the house.

“Before the mining activities started our house never cracked or collapsed,” he said.

He believes the mine should either have reduced the intensity of its blasting operations or helped the family construct a safer, more durable home.

Lawyers argue constitutional rights were infringed

In a letter of demand, Sylvester Mahlangu Attorneys accuse Mafube of exposing the family to years of excessive blasting vibrations, air pressure and ground movement.

The attorneys argue the company knew its operations could cause harm but continued regardless.

The legal team further contends that the family’s constitutional rights have been infringed and is seeking R4 million in damages.

Mine responds

Mafube mine has not commented on the substance of the allegations.

Company spokesperson Hulisani Rasivhaga said the mine would respond through the appropriate legal processes.

“We will respond through the relevant channels. We remain committed to constructive engagement,” Rasivhaga said.

Why blasting disputes matter

Conflicts between mining companies and nearby communities are not uncommon in South Africa, particularly in provinces with extensive coal and mineral operations.

Residents living close to mines have, over the years, raised concerns about structural damage, dust pollution, noise and the long-term effects of blasting on homes and quality of life.

Whether the Mahlangu family’s home was damaged directly by mining activities will ultimately be determined through the legal process and any technical evidence presented by both parties.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Source: thecitizen.co.za