Dear Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today as a concerned resident of Mbabane, a rural area within the Dannhauser municipality of KwaZulu-Natal. Our community has been tormented by the Ikwezi coal mine which has not only failed to fulfill its promises but has also proven detrimental to the lives and well-being of the local population.

Allow me to shed some light on the severity of the situation. The coal mine in question, purported to
bring economic prosperity and development to our community, has regrettably done nothing but exploit and deceive us. The promises of job creation and better lives for the local people have remained unfulfilled, leaving our community in despair and hopelessness.

Moreover, the operations carried out by this mine have caused immense harm to our community. The constant blasting, demolishing, and excavation have not only destroyed our houses but have also caused irreparable damage to the surrounding infrastructure. Families have been forced to abandon their homes due to safety concerns, exacerbating an already dire housing crisis in our area.

Additionally, the mine has become a grave health hazard for the entire community. The airborne pollutants and hazardous substances released during mining activities have severely impacted the air quality, causing respiratory diseases and other health issues among our residents. It is distressing to witness the suffering of our children, elderly, and vulnerable populations, who are particularly susceptible to these health hazards.

Given the gravity of the situation, we kindly request your assistance in addressing this matter of utmost urgency. We implore you to:
1. Conduct a thorough investigation into the coal mine's operations and determine if it is adhering to environmental regulations, community welfare obligations, and promises made during its establishment.
2. Advocate for the well-being and interests of our community members by pressuring the relevant authorities to hold the mine accountable for its actions and demand reparations for the damages caused to the community and its infrastructure.
3. Work towards developing sustainable and environmentally friendly economic alternatives for our
region, providing long-term employment opportunities that benefit our community without compromising our health and environment. We believe that with your influential voice and political influence, our concerns and grievances can
finally be heard, leading to the much-needed resolution and justice for our community. We eagerly await your response and assistance in resolving this disastrous situation that has plagued our community for far too long. Your support will not only bring hope to our community but also
demonstrate your unwavering commitment to the well-being and progress of all South African citizens, irrespective of their geographic location.

Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter.