Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Lekokaneng Ha-Lehlohonolo community and surrounding villages are lamenting the lack of benefits to the Lekokoaneng stone mines. In order to find a solution to this problem, the Minister of Mines, Hon.
Honorable Qoo, miners, chiefs, the Justice and Peace Commission of the Lesotho Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the community met on Monday to discuss a process that will benefit all concerned.
The Minister also listened to and visited some of the mines, looking at the role that women played and congratulating them. Speaking to the Lekokaneng community, Qoo explained that he had been informed by the Justice and Peace Commission that there were women who were actively involved in carving and quarrying.
“That is why I have visited this area to congratulate and encourage these women, it is also important to listen to what the community wants from these mines, and to resolve the conflict between the community and the mine owners,” Qoo said.
rialo. After listening to the grievances and interests of the community Qoo urged the community to work together, “appoint a committee that will take your issues to the owners of the mines so that they can respond to your needs.
. Your information will be reviewed by my office which deals with similar issues and we will look at how we can help you, ”Qoo explained.
“Twenty years ago I asked for the Kolo mine to be closed after they failed to implement their agreements with the community to make improvements.
In the meantime, next week I will pledge to donate M5000 on Friday, in addition to paying for electricity in Ha-Lehlohonolo village at the request of one of the residents, ”Qoo said.
A resident of the area complained that they were not being helped with the supply because they were connected to the village to be electrified, supplemented by Mr Moeketse Mpholle who pointed out that they were never heard and the committee disbanded.
he said he was grateful Qoo when he came there to hear that they needed improvements including the hospital as the people who work there are injured and it is better for the center to be nearby.
The miners’ spokesman, Mr Tumahole Masupha, explained that they had already done a number of things, including building a royal office and bringing in a water tank.
“Some of your needs will be met once you have elected a committee.
The recommendation is that you choose it based on your individual strengths and not just because of his or her appearance and that is why we can respond to your needs correctly, ”Masupha said.
According to the Representative of the Justice and Peace Commission of the Lesotho Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Ms. ‘Mamotebang Sehloho, they have formed an alliance with the Ministry of Mines to encourage women and youth to become actively involved in mining.
He said women seemed to be taking refuge but said they should take the example of those who were not there, adding that the commission would support women in the mines and women living near the mines.
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