Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reveals the province, however contributed the least towards South Africa’s overall economic growth the same year, contributing a paltry 2% to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

In her February 2019 State of the Province Address (SOPA) Northern Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas, stressed the significance of mining to economic growth, further expressing concern that not all people in the province are benefiting from mining related activities.

“I am saddened to say our people our people still battle with bread and butter issues. Our people are impoverished and their dignity is considerably diminished…the consequence of this legacy is that we still do not benefit from our mineral resources” said Lucas at the time.

Following her address, President Cyril Ramaphosa, opened the Vedanta Zinc International's Gamsberg Mine outside the Northern Cape town of Aggeneys. 

OFM News reported previously that the Indian-based company has invested R5,6 billion in the first phase of the Gamberg zinc mine. 

The first phase of the mine saw more than 3 000 people being employed at the height of construction, while 750 permanent jobs were created.

OFM News