Illegal mining has cost South Africa at least R60 billion in 2024, according to Gwede Mantashe, the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Mantashe described illegal mining as a criminal activity that severely damages the country’s economy. Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, he stressed that those involved in illicit mining activities show no concern for safety regulations or laws. “Illegal mining is a war on the economy,” he stated.
The Minister confirmed the ongoing loss of revenue from the illegal precious metals trade, adding that the illicit operations have a significant negative impact. Mantashe also pointed out that his department is actively working with law enforcement to eliminate the problem, citing initiatives like Operation Vala Umgodi, which targets mining hotspots in provinces such as Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape, and North West.
Addressing mine rehabilitation, Mantashe called on operational mines to take responsibility for their sites, stating that mining companies should manage rehabilitation as they operate. He also acknowledged the state’s responsibility in handling derelict and ownerless mines, which were largely abandoned during apartheid without any rehabilitation plans.
Turning to the situation at the Stilfontein gold mine, where 78 illegal miners were found dead, Mantashe held the mine’s owners accountable. He argued that the state should not be held responsible for the dangers posed by private companies’ neglected mines.
