Recent tensions in Hartbeespoort’s business community have exposed deep-seated racial divides that continue to affect economic opportunities in the region.
Story Summary:
- Tensions in Hartbeespoort have erupted over disputes related to land and economic access around the dam.
- A government-formed committee will address the racial divide between black and white business owners, focusing on fair access to land and the enforcement of regulations.
How land near Hartbeespoort Dam is at the centre of racial tensions
The conflict gained widespread attention after a black-owned establishment was torched in September, resulting in damages estimated at R2 million.
This incident, which reports suggest was racially motivated, sparked two public marches calling for equal economic opportunities around the dam, especially for black business owners.
At the heart of the tension lies access to prime land surrounding Hartbeespoort Dam.
Black business owners have accused their white counterparts of deliberately excluding them from lucrative business opportunities in the tourist town, which is known for its economic potential.
In contrast, white business owners argue that many black-owned establishments fail to comply with necessary municipal by-laws and regulations, adding fuel to the fire.
On Monday, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo addressed the community during an imbizo, condemning both sides for what he described as destructive conduct.
“We have to co-exist… Certain people decided not to respect other members of the community, and those other members made a criminal choice to attack each other,” Mahlobo said, adding that the recent incidents had tarnished the community’s image.
Govt plans to get to the bottom of this: Here’s how
To resolve the situation, Mahlobo announced the formation of a stakeholder committee, set to launch by November, which will bring together representatives from all tiers of government, traditional leaders, businesses, and other interest groups, including environmental advocates.
The committee will work to address the concerns raised by both black and white business owners, ensuring that economic opportunities are made available in a fair and regulated manner.
One of the key issues that will be addressed is the controversial 99-year leases previously granted to certain tenants around the dam.
These leases, which granted long-term access to state-owned land, are viewed by many black business owners as emblematic of past racial exclusion.
In response, the government has introduced a new lease structure, limiting leases to nine years and 11 months, to ensure more equitable land distribution and better regulation of commercial activities around the dam.
However, this new regime has not been without its challenges.
Representative of the Kosmos Village Association, Daan van Heerden, criticised the government’s handling of the issue, particularly the issuance of permission to occupy slips by the Department of Water and Sanitation.
He called for a more permanent solution to the ongoing disputes, warning against using media and racial tensions to advance personal agendas.
In response, the government has pledged to investigate allegations of irregular lease issuance within the department.
Mahlobo confirmed that a committee is now in place to oversee lease approvals and prevent corruption, ensuring that decisions are made transparently and with the public interest in mind.
