Government efforts on track to bring peace, reconciliation in Wonderkop, Marikana.
The North West Provincial Government has reaffirmed its resolute commitment to bring lasting peace and stability at Wonderkop near Rustenburg, where 44 people including mine workers, police officers and security guards, were killed during what is known as the Marikana tragedy in August 2012.
Through its Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal (RHR) programme, the 5th administration of the North West province has made great strides in reaching out to the community of Wonderkop, who have since opened their hearts to the provincial government, this in an effort to not only bring peace and stability in the area, but to also ensure that residents’ living conditions are bettered through implementation of community development projects.
In remembering the August 2012 tragedy, the provincial government has reiterated the importance of working together with all community structures, religious leaders and the private sector in the area, through the already established Wonderkop RHR Forum.
To this end, the forum which comprises communities of Wonderkop, is currently working with government in preparation for the Peace and Prayer Day to be held in Wonderkop early next month, and the turning of the first sod for the creation of a memorial site at the Marikana Koppie, this in honor of the victims of the 2012 Marikana tragedy.
“The provincial government is pleased by the progress made thus far in rebuilding the relationship between government and the people of Wonderkop, which has led to the fostering of an environment of trust.
“We continue to call on the community to cooperate and join hands with government in rolling out all development projects targeted for this area. Importantly, we urge the community to work with government in ensuring that the 292 Breaking New Ground and 252 Rental Stock housing projects delivered by the department of Local Government and Human Settlement at Marikana Ext 2 are occupied by the rightful owners, and avoid the unnecessary negative attention which has been drawn to this area as a result of the illegal occupation of the houses by some residents”, said Mr Brian Setswambung, the provincial spokesperson, adding that more services will be delivered by the provincial government as part of developing the Wonderkop, Marikana area.
Tomorrow, 12 August, the province will be remembering the first violent incident in Marikana which left ten (10) people dead, including the police, miners and security guards. This incident was followed by the killing of 34 more miners on 16 August, living 78 wounded, during a clash stirred by the police’s attempt to disarm the striking miners.
For enquiries, contact
Mr Brian Setswambung
Provincial Head of Communication
Office of the Premier
North West Provincial Government
Cell: 076 012 4501
E-mail: bsetswambung@nwpg.gov.za
