Concerns have been raised over the increasing number of illegal mining activities and unauthorised chrome wash plants operating across the province, particularly in the Bojanala and Madibeng areas. The issue came under scrutiny during an engagement between numerous role players in the province.

Several regulatory, environmental, and enforcement challenges were highlighted on a meeting between the legislature’s portfolio committee on economic development, environment, conservation and tourism, chaired by MPL Mpho Khunou, and the department of economic development, environment, conservation and tourism (Dedect).

It emerged that regulations under the National Environmental Management Act (Nema) are allegedly being exploited due to regulatory gaps and grey areas relating to the authorisation and oversight of chrome wash plants. 

The committee has requested a clause-by-clause breakdown of the regulations from the department, along with recommendations to address these shortcomings, including whether amendments to Section 24G of Nema or entirely new regulations may be necessary.

Khunou raised alarm over the environmental impact of illegal wash plants, citing water pollution, illegal discharge into rivers, air contamination, land degradation, and unsafe excavation practices. These issues are not only damaging ecosystems but also placing communities and municipal infrastructure at risk.

“Communities are suffering environmental damage, water pollution, and unsafe mining activities, while the province is not benefiting economically from these operations.

Chair of the legislature’s portfolio committee on economic development, environment, conservation and tourism Mpho Khunou. Photo supplied

“We are particularly concerned about regulatory gaps, lack of enforcement capacity, and poor coordination between institutions. The committee will continue to push for stronger regulations, improved enforcement, a full audit of mining activities in the province, and better coordination among all government departments involved,” said Khunou.

Committee members also voiced concern that illegal mining persists despite existing legislation, with enforcement actions seldom resulting in prosecutions or convictions.

It was revealed that approximately 70 chrome wash plants have been inspected during the 2025/26 financial year, with about 30 found to be operating without the required environmental authorisation. 

Capacity constraints

Seven criminal cases have been opened with the police, while several pre-compliance notices have been issued. Some operators have indicated their intention to apply for rectification under Section 24G of Nema.

However, the committee expressed frustration over delays in fine payments, lengthy appeals processes, and the slow pace of enforcement. Capacity constraints were also highlighted, with only three compliance inspectors currently deployed in the Bojanala district – far too few to monitor the growing number of operations effectively.

Another critical concern is the lack of coordination among key enforcement bodies, including the department of mineral resources and energy, the police, home affairs, the department of water and sanitation, municipalities, and traditional authorities.

The committee noted fragmented efforts and weak inter-agency collaboration are allowing illegal operations to persist.

Meanwhile, North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi reassured residents that government intervention is underway. 

During his state of the province address, Mokgosi confirmed the South African National Defence Force will be deployed as part of a broader presidential intervention to combat illegal mining.

OFM News/ Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvs

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