Award-winning Carletonville teacher fights for rights of Lesotho nationals
Shale, who hails from Lesotho, has lived and taught in the area for many years and is well-known for his school's strong matric performance. He says South Africans often forget how deeply connected the two nations are.
'People must remember that Lesotho is one of only a few countries completely landlocked within another,' explains Shale. 'This restricts our development, and many of our citizens are forced to seek work in South Africa, particularly in areas like Merafong.'
Basotho Contributions and Challenges
Shale highlights the historic role that Basotho workers played in building South Africa's mining industry and notes that many senior employees in local mines still come from Lesotho.
Despite these contributions, he says many Lesotho nationals face discrimination, exploitation, and unfair treatment, especially when it comes to employment rights and documentation.
'Many Basotho workers are dismissed illegally and have no legal recourse,' he adds. 'Others live in fear due to their undocumented status, even though Lesotho has improved its internal systems to track births and identities—something South Africa could easily use to verify legal entry.'
Shale contrasts the treatment of Lesotho nationals with citizens from other countries like Zimbabwe, who, he claims, often receive more lenient treatment. He also points out that South Africa relies heavily on Lesotho's water resources, making a more cooperative and respectful relationship essential.
A Call for Respect and Recognition
The People's Forum, founded by Shale in September 2019, aims to advocate for Lesotho nationals and push for policy changes that reflect their shared history with South Africa.
'We are not asking for favours,' says Shale. 'We are asking to be treated as human beings. The historical and geographical relationship between our countries should mean something.'
According to Shale, there are an estimated 3,000 Lesotho nationals living in the Merafong area, many of whom are undocumented and vulnerable.
Contact Information:
For more information about the People's Forum, contact Mr. Lillo Shale at 073 323 5795.
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