Case study:A section of the Malamulele high school in Limpopo has been damaged by fire, Limpopo police said on Tuesday. The township of Malamulele has been tense and under heavy police watch following a month of violent protests.

Protesters demanding their own municipality have brought Malamulele to a standstill and barred pupils from attending schools. They monitored roads to ensure no business took place and forced a shutdown of schools, banks as well as shops in the local mall.

1. What is the main cause of the violent protests in the Malamulele area?(2)

2. Briefly explain 3 effects of violent protests on the economy.(6)

3. Name 2 groups that were affected by the violent protests in the Malamulele township.

4. Explain 3 consequences of the lack of skills by people

1 answer

1. The main cause of the violent protests in the Malamulele area is the demand for their own municipality. The residents are unhappy with being part of the Thulamela municipality and have been calling for their own local government.

2. a) Damage to infrastructure: Violent protests can result in damage to public and private property, such as schools, shops, and roads. This can have a negative impact on the economy as rebuilding and repairing these structures can be costly.
b) Disruption of business activities: Protests can lead to the forced closure of businesses, as seen in the case of the shutdown of schools, banks, and shops in the Malamulele mall. This can result in financial losses for business owners and employees.
c) Decreased investor confidence: Violent protests can scare away potential investors due to the instability and uncertainty it creates. This can lead to a decrease in economic development and job creation in the affected area.

3. Two groups that were affected by the violent protests in the Malamulele township include:
- Students: Protests resulted in the forced closure of schools, denying students access to education.
- Business owners and employees: The shutdown of businesses in the local mall and other areas meant loss of income and financial stability for those reliant on these businesses for their livelihood.

4. Consequences of the lack of skills by people include:
- Unemployment: Without the necessary skills or qualifications, individuals may struggle to find employment opportunities, leading to high rates of unemployment.
- Poverty: Lack of skills can result in limited earning potential and financial instability, leading to poverty and a lower standard of living.
- Limited economic growth: A population lacking in skills can hinder economic growth and development in a region, as there may not be enough qualified workers to support industries and businesses.