In the town of Kuruman in South Africa, another coffin is lowered into the ground. Asbestos was mined here for 100 years; most people know at least three people who have died of asbestos poisoning. Footage from an early mine shows workers toiling barehanded without facemasks, oblivious to health risks. Things never really improved. This man never had a check-up, laments one doctor. If there had been mechanisms in place, his life would have been saved. Now sufferers are seeking compensation and the mines are also being held accountable for environmental damage. Old mines are supposed to be rehabilitated, but many are just covered over, ready to be re-exposed by the wind and infect more people. Until the mines clear up their mess, the crisis will continue.

Produced by SABC Special Assignment