South Africa: Disruption reported on R556 road near Makolokwe, May 11

Event

A service delivery protest has been reported in Makolokwe during the morning hours May 11. Disruptions have been reported on the R556 road in the vicinity of the village. Security forces have been deployed to the affected area. Locals are reportedly protesting over a lack of access to potable water.

The authorities are likely to maintain a security presence at the impact site to manage the protest. Officials may seek to disperse or clear the demonstrators in the coming hours which could trigger clashes. Disruptions to freight transport and business operations are possible.

Context

Service delivery protests are common in South Africa, particularly in informal settlements near or adjoining major urban centers. Protests are regularly triggered by socioeconomic issues, such as unemployment, lack of access to land, and lack of housing or are in opposition to perceived or actual lack of service delivery, including but not limited to the provision of electricity and water, and municipal or national-level corruption among state officials. Protesters will regularly block major and secondary routes with debris during busy rush hour periods. Some protests can last for several hours; even if a protest ends, it can resume in the coming days if demands are not met. Significant violence is not common, with officials generally engaging in negotiations to end unrest.

Advice

Avoid the protest. Consider alternative routes around the impact area. Plan for disruptions to both general travel and the transport of freight. Reconfirm the status of the route in the coming days. Heed the directives of the local authorities and monitor local media for updates. Reconfirm all public transport services that operate in or through the area.