Mining in South Africa was once the main driving force [1] behind the history and development of Africa's most advanced and richest economy. [2] Large-scale and profitable mining started with the discovery of a diamond on the banks of the Orange River in 1867 by Erasmus Jacobs and the subsequent discovery of the Kimberley pipes a few years later.

Apr 8, 2024 · Since then, the mining industry has become hugely important to the country, contributing roughly 202 billion South African Rand (roughly 10.9 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023 to South Africa’s...

Although gold, diamonds, platinum and coal are the most well-known among the minerals and metals mined, South Africa also hosts chrome, vanadium, titanium and a number of other lesser minerals. Key mining facts:

The Comprehensive Facts and Figures 2024 Pocketbook highlights the vital role of mining in South Africa’s economy and society. The book showcases the industry’s contributions, challenges, and opportunities for sustainable growth.

> South Africa’s mining industry is the fifth largest globally in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). > The mining sector contributed R356bn or 7.3% to South Africa’s GDP and accounted for 25% of the country’s total export earnings. Platinum, coal …

4 days ago · The expected and timely introduction of a modern, transparent mining cadastre that will bring South Africa level with other mining jurisdictions in terms of efficiency of licensing to: a. urgently manage the backlog of unprocessed prospecting and mining right applications. b. speedily process and issue new applications without contestation and ...

South Africa’s mining industry is the fifth largest globally in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). The mining sector contributed R356bn or 7.3% to South Africa’s GDP and accounted for 25% of the country’s total export earnings. Platinum, coal …

Jan 31, 2025 · South Africa’s mining, minerals and exploration industry has historically been the backbone of the economy. Despite the challenges the industry faces, such as changes in commodity prices, energy instability, and regulatory inefficiencies, the sector does have the potential for transformation and the discovery of new reserves. ...

Oct 1, 2024 · In 2024, the South African mining sector saw a significant increase in deal values. The increase in deal values aligns with global trends, driven by the quest for critical minerals essential for the energy transition.

Apr 17, 2024 · Mining in South Africa has for decades been considered a flywheel of the South African economy, and it remains a major contributor to the economy today. In 2023 it contributed 6.2% to the country’s GDP.