The report's allegations draw upon the effects on local communities caused by operations of two mines operated by Coal of Africa Ltd. (Vele, Makhado) in Limpopo province, South Africa. The allegations refer to negative effect on human rights, more precisely on the right to water due to high water consumption and water pollution caused by the operating mines, the right to work as the Vele mine is said to destroy agricultural and tourism jobs, the right to health of local populations caused by dust pollution from the mine (mining and transport) as well as the right to housing as houses are likely to be damaged/cracked by rock-blasting activites by the company. According to the report, Vitol sources coal from the respective mines of Coal of Africa Ltd. and holds shares in the company.

The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre invited Vitol to respond to the allegations and provides a press statement by Coal of Africa on the report.