Mining has long been central to South Africa’s economic growth, yet its legacy has entrenched socio-economic inequalities in host communities, characterised by poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation. Despite legislative reforms like the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002 mandating community engagement and socio-economic development, host communities continue to experience marginalisation and limited benefits from mining activities. This study aimed to explore the role of host communities in the introduction and implementation of systemic change by mining companies, with a focus on how these communities shape, influence, and respond to mining-led interventions. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, the study employed a qualitative research approach using semi-structured interviews with 10 purposefully selected participants from a mining host community. Qualitative content analysis was used to interpret the data. Findings revealed that host communities play multiple roles: they identify local needs and priorities, grant the social license to operate, act as catalysts for accountability, collaborate in co-creating solutions, and advocate for inclusive development. They also facilitate social change and drive continuous improvement in mining strategies. These roles highlight the community’s agency in shaping systemic change and ensuring that mining interventions align with local realities. The study recommends strengthening community partnerships, enhancing transparency mechanisms, and promoting inclusive co-created development frameworks. In conclusion, host communities are not passive beneficiaries but active agents of change whose engagement is critical for sustainable and equitable mining-led transformation.
Oloba et al. (Thu,) studied this question.