Question NW972 to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
24 March 2023 - NW972
Mthenjane, Mr DF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
Whether, noting how illegal mining usually occurs in disused shafts which were closed down, he has considered artisan mining so as to train the illegal miners to be qualified mining artisans so that disused mines can be legally operational?
Reply:
a) Illegal mining is regarded as a serious crime and cannot be equated to Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining. In 2021 the Department introduced the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Strategy as a policy intervention to drive the development of Artisanal and Small-Scale miners and encourage the participation of Historically Disadvantaged South Africans.
b) Any person who wishes to participate in mining / prospecting activities is allowed to apply in terms of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) and the above policy guideline.