Independently managed trust the Tshiamiso Trust has disbursed R2.5-billion to eligible claimants in compensation as agreed in the historic silicosis and tuberculosis (TB) settlement agreement.

The amount disbursed thus far represents the halfway mark in administering the compensation, which the trust achieved shortly after passing the midpoint of its 12-year legislative lifecycle in December.

The R2.5-billion disbursed to date across Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe relies on prescribed claim processes to ensure fairness, accuracy and compliance with the Trust Deed.

The trust operates in a complex environment, where the wide geographical spread of claimants, the sourcing and verification of historical records, and the rigorous implementation of Trust Deed requirements continue to pose operational challenges.

“This has necessitated extensive, careful and methodical processes to ensure fairness, accuracy and compliance with the Trust Deed. The halfway mark allows us to reflect on our progress and sharpen our focus for the remaining years ahead,” says Tshiamiso Trust CEO Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda.

Despite the complexities, the Tshiamiso Trust has steadily expanded its reach through on-the-ground interventions, outreach programmes and partnerships with service providers, governments and community-based structures, which are aimed at improving access, accelerating claims processing and ensuring eligible claimants are supported throughout the process.

Further, the window for new claim lodgements closes in December 2029.

“Our mandate is to ensure that every eligible claimant receives what is due to them. We do not want any eligible person to miss out because they waited too long.

“If you or a family member worked at gold mines owned by African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti, Harmony Gold, Sibanye-Stillwater or Gold Fields between 1965 and 2019, come forward as soon as possible,” he urged prospective claimants.

The invitation also extends to former mineworkers whose condition has worsened after having a previously unsuccessful claim. Those mineworkers are permitted to lodge a second claim with the trust.

Payment would be required for the Benefit Medical Examination, with this cost being refunded, if they meet the medical eligibility criteria.