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Minister Mantashe remains committed to return to Xolobeni, to continue with engagements with the whole community in order to ensure finality to the matter of mining and development in Xolobeni.

The Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe, at his initiative, convened a meeting with the Amadiba Crisis Committee (ACC) on 17th November 2018, with the express aim of hearing their views.

At the meeting, the ACC requested the Minister to return to Xolobeni and engage the broader community; to which Minister Mantashe acceded.

The Minister had intended to return to Xolobeni this weekend but has since postponed his visit to allow stakeholders more time to prepare.

The Minister has also interacted with Mr Richard Spoor, the legal representative of the ACC, on these matters. His statement issued to the media earlier today is rather unfortunate and disingenuous regarding the Minister’s intentions. This is highly irresponsible and can only serve to fuel tensions in the community.

As it is the Ministry’s commitment and practice, details of the Minister’s visit to Xolobeni - like in other cases - will be communicated by the department to stakeholders, including members of the media.

Issued by the Department of Mineral Resources