THE EXPERIENCES AND CHALLENGES OF WOMEN WHO RESIDE IN DRIEKOP MINING COMMUNITY OF THE LIMPOPO PROVINCE

Mining operations are envisaged to improve the conditions of members of their host communities (communities where they operate) by creating employment opportunities, developing infrastructure and enhancing their wellbeing. Yet despite these operations, research shows that these communities are underdeveloped and impoverished, and women are more severely affected than men. As an advocate for social justice, social work is instrumental in addressing these impacts, particularly through scientific research. This qualitative social work study explored the experiences and challenges of women residing in the Driekop mining community of Limpopo province, South Africa. The findings revealed that women experience both the benefits and challenges associated with these mining operations. Keywords: challenges, experiences, mining community, social work, women