Following the devastating mudslide in Jagersfontein, the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy of the South African Parliament plans to go there immediately.
A dam wall of a defunct mine failed, creating a mudslide and resulting in at least one death, forty hospitalizations, and the disappearance of two people. The mudslide destroyed houses and infrastructure in the vicinity.
“We are going to consult with the Portfolio Committee on Water Affairs and Sanitation with a view to conduct an urgent joint oversight visit to the affected area because we appreciate that underground, surface and dam water resources fall under their purview.
“We reiterate our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and friends, and assure them of our support during this very difficult time. May the… deceased rest in eternal peace,” the committee’s chairperson, Sahlulele Luzipo, said.
The same committee, together with the Portfolio Committees on Police and Home Affairs, made a weekend oversight visit to the Sekhuhkhune District in Limpopo to assess the level of illicit mining in the region.
Since the reported gang rape of eight women in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, by illegal miners, illicit mining has gained prominence.
During their visit to Limpopo, the three committees were informed that some community members had resorted to illicit mining after their mining licence applications were denied.
According to community members, they engage in illegal mining to support their families since all mining rights in the region are held by large mining corporations.
Luzipo requested that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) address the licencing issues.
“[While] we understand your frustration, however, we cannot promise to resolve the issue of licensing. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy must help… so that the community can also get an opportunity to participate in the mining business,” Luzipo said.
According to a statement released on behalf of the three committees, the illegal miners are targeting platinum, chrome and gold.
“In an effort to thwart illegal mining activities in the area, the committees were informed that the South African Police Service embarked on a joint operation to fight illegal mining activities in the area and there has reportedly been progress.
“The committees also heard that when illegal miners are pushed out of Sekhukhune, they often relocate to other parts of the province, in areas such as Mopani and Waterberg districts, or they move to other provinces to continue their illegal mining activities,” the statement read.