Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe
By Thabo Mosia
Cape Town – Minister Gwede Mantashe of the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has expressed deep concern about the wave of retrenchments affecting the platinum sector, despite the mining industry employing nearly half a million South Africans.
“Whilst the mining sector employs 489 000 mineworkers, we have noted with concern the recent retrenchments specifically in the platinum sector. In response to these job losses, we have pulled our social partners together and are in discussions to craft an approach to minimise them,” Mantashe stated during his Budget Vote speech in parliament.
Strategic Partnerships Combat Challenges
Minister Mantashe highlighted the collaborative efforts of the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) and the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC). These bodies have formed alliances with industry stakeholders to enhance the infrastructure that supports mining activities.
Legislative Amendments Underway
The department is in the process of drafting substantial amendments to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Act (MPRDA).
“The amendments will address legal challenges and reinforce areas identified as weak, aligning them with international best practices. This includes a review of the licensing regime to cut red tape, improving the business climate for investors while considering South Africa’s socio-economic landscape,” Mantashe noted.
These regulatory changes are a continuation of reforms introduced during the sixth administration, aiming to strengthen South Africa’s mining sector and stimulate economic growth.
Leveraging South Africa’s Mineral Wealth
“Given South Africa’s considerable mineral reserves of strategic significance to global economies, we are convinced that increased exploration will enable the country to meaningfully benefit from its global advantage,” Mantashe said.
To this end, an exploration fund has been established in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to support emerging and junior miners. The government plans to engage additional fund managers and investors to ensure the sustainability of this fund.
Support for Small-Scale Miners
Acknowledging the vital role of small-scale miners, the department has allocated R72 million to support artisanal and small-scale mining operations, particularly those owned by women and youth.
Focus on Mineworker Safety
Minister Mantashe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the health and safety of mineworkers, highlighting improved performance towards the zero harm goal due to strategic partnerships.
“This is evident in the decline in mine fatalities, injuries, and occupational diseases, with 2022 witnessing the lowest fatalities on record at 49,” he said.
However, the tragedy at Impala Rustenburg, which claimed 13 lives in 2023, underscores the hazards that still exist. Furthermore, Mantashe noted increasing fatalities related to motor accidents and illegal mining activities. The department is working closely with the industry to develop minimum safety standards and guidelines to address these issues.
Budget Allocations for 2024/25
For the 2024/25 financial year, the department has been allocated R8.84 billion, with R6.4 billion designated for transfers to public entities, municipalities, and other institutions or implementing agents. These funds will support ongoing initiatives to bolster the mining sector and ensure its sustainable development.
Minister Mantashe’s address underscores the ongoing efforts and significant steps taken by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to mitigate challenges in the mining sector, improve safety standards, and enhance economic growth through strategic reforms and partnerships.
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