The Ekapa Relief Fund raised more than half a million rand in support of 750 families affected by the mine’s liquidation in February. The money was raised through a fundraising concert which was held on Saturday (11/4) at The Fire in Kimberley.

The initiative combined a large-scale food drive with a fundraising concert, successfully mobilising individuals, businesses, organisations, and institutions to assist struggling households.

The event featured live performances by local artists, a variety of food stalls, and a play area for children, offering a family-friendly environment for all attendees.

'True power of community'

“This initiative showed the true power of community, where people came together selflessly to support one another during a very difficult time,” said Ekapa Relief Fund founder Mari Myrtle Venter. “I am deeply grateful to every individual, organisation, and business that stood with us. Your generosity has brought real hope and relief to families in need.

“Raising more than half a million rand is an incredible achievement, but what matters most is the impact it has had on the lives of hundreds of families.”

As we conclude the project, we are proud to have reached 750 families, and we hope this spirit of unity and compassion continues long after this initiative ends, she said.

Mine closed with immediate effect

Meanwhile, the mine had applied for liquidation and closed in February, with immediate effect.

The mine will be under provisional liquidation until Friday (17/4), when legal proceedings will continue in the high court sitting in Kimberley. More than a thousand workers have lost their jobs and have not been paid their February salaries due to the liquidation.

The metalworkers’ union Numsa in Kimberley called for the immediate arrest of the CEO of Ekapa Minerals following the deaths of five miners in a mudslide in February. The union cites criminal negligence regarding safety conditions and the failure to pay over 1,200 workers. 

OFM News/Zenande Mpame   cvdw

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