Community unrest has erupted at Glencore Ferroalloys’ Rhovan mine, near Brits, in the North West province, following the conclusion of fixed-term contracts for 140 local workers employed during the construction of a 25 MW solar PV plant.

Rhovan, a vanadium mining and processing facility managed by Glencore Ferroalloys, began construction of the solar plant in 2024 as part of its efforts to support sustainable energy use.

During the commissioning of the project, the company worked closely with the Bakwena-Ba-Magopa community, involving local small and medium-sized enterprises in the construction and installation process.

The project created short-term employment for 140 community members under fixed-term contracts, which were initially set for six months from August 2024 and later extended to the end of October 2025.

Now, after being notified that their contracts will not be renewed, the affected employees have expressed dissatisfaction and initiated a labour dispute, demanding continued employment. In protest, they have blocked access roads to the mine and are calling for operations to be halted.

According to the company, some protesters have also staged a sit-in and have allegedly intimidated permanent employees, leading to their removal from the operations.

Glencore Ferroalloys said senior management had offered the workers an opportunity to present their concerns but that they declined further discussions unless their demands were met. The company stated that the workers insisted the meeting be held at Rhovan, while management had proposed it be held at its Rustenburg head office owing to other commitments.

“At Rhovan, we understand the concerns raised by community members regarding the recent conclusion of fixed-term contracts. We want to emphasise our commitment to engaging with the community and ensuring that local enterprises and individuals benefit from our operations.

“We urge all parties to engage peacefully and respectfully as we work to maintain a safe environment for everyone involved. Rhovan remains dedicated to supporting local employment and strengthening relationships within the community,” Glencore Ferroalloys CEO Japie Fullard said on October 17.

The company said the decision to end the contracts was made in line with the terms agreed upon at the start of the project. It acknowledged the disappointment among affected workers but stated that engagement sessions had been held to listen to their concerns and encourage open dialogue.

Glencore added that the solar project had contributed to skills development and employment opportunities in the renewable-energy sector, highlighting its ongoing commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and community development.

“The construction of the solar plant at Rhovan has not only enhanced local skills and expertise but also created meaningful employment opportunities within the renewable-energy sector. This initiative demonstrates Glencore’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and sustainable community development,” the company said in a statement.

It added that, by investing in local talent and fostering long-term growth, Glencore aimed to contribute positively to the region’s economic progress and environmental resilience.