DEVASTATED residents of Clare Village in the Greater Manyeleti area of Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, took to the streets on Monday, 26 February.
They were accusing a local businessman of blocking a bush clearing project that put food on the table for their families.
The protesters made up of single mums, widows and the youth, who benefitted from the project, were carrying placards outside the local tavern which is run by businessman Dennis Malope.
They were demanding that he either shares his cashflow from the tavern or brings back the project with immediate effect.
Worried single mum of one, Portia Mathebula (35), said: "We were happy when the project came in October and employed us so our kids would get food at the end of day. But this businessman disrupted the project. Our families are starving now and in May next year the project lapses."
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Shaun Siwelane (31) said: "We decided to protest outside his tavern. He must share his cashflow or bring the project back with immediate effect. We can't tolerate his tactics of depriving us of our rights."
Worried induna Aubrey Mathebula said: "It's hurting as our government delivers jobs, and he makes disruptions deliberately. He's on his own and enjoying while the community is suffering."
Businessman Dennis Malope admitted that he obstructed the project, but he decided to reverse his actions.
"Yes, I stopped the project because of certain aspects which were not followed accordingly. I'm going to consult my group about the withdrawal and bring back the project soon," he said.
