By Staff Reporter
GIYANI– The R529 road has been closed by protesters as Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba prepares to meet with drought-affected farmers in Giyani today.
The meeting, scheduled for 11:00 at Assemblies of God Church in Mphagani Village, was intended to address the dire conditions faced by farmers in the Mopani and Vhembe districts, where prolonged droughts have decimated grazing fields and left the land parched.
However, residents of Dzumeri have disrupted access to the area, demanding that Premier Ramathuba address their concerns first. Their primary grievance revolves around the formal recognition of their traditional leader, Hosi Divila Wilson Mabunda.
According to the protesters, the Premier’s meeting with farmers will not proceed unless this matter is resolved.
The R529, a key route between Ndhambi and Tzaneen, has been blocked with burning debris and tree branches, making travel between Mphagani, the Molototsi bridge, and the Constantia (Falia) bridge hazardous.
Authorities have advised motorists to avoid the area until further notice.
The standoff underscores growing tensions in the region, with Dzumeri community members calling for official recognition of their leader before any government engagements can take place.
It remains to be seen whether Premier Ramathuba will address these concerns or proceed with her planned meeting with farmers.
Updates will follow as the situation develops.
