EAST LONDON– The Eastern Cape has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and sustainable mining with the introduction of a new bill aimed at clarifying land tenure and community roles in mining development.
Speaking at the 3rd Annual Eastern Cape Mining Indaba, held at the East London Golf Course on 30–31 October 2025, Premier of the Eastern Cape Oscar Mabuyane said the province’s growing mining sector continues to open new economic opportunities and jobs across the region.
Mabuyane highlighted the expansion of kaolin and limestone mining in the Chris Hani and Joe Gqabi districts, alongside manganese and rare mineral exploration in the Karoo Basin and sand and quarry operations supporting infrastructure projects. “These initiatives are already generating over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, with potential for even greater growth, our goal is to ensure that mining development translates into tangible benefits for our people and communities,” he said.
He also celebrated the revival of the Elitheni Coal Mine, which has created 84 jobs including 15 permanent, 10 temporary, and 60 casual positions marking a success story for local industry revival.
Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development Mzwanele Nyhontso announced that a new process bill, the Criminal and Administrative Bill is being developed to clarify land tenure and governance issues in mining-affected areas. “This bill aims to define the roles of traditional leaders and communities in land matters, ensuring that people understand the land belongs to them with traditional leaders serving as custodians,” said Nyhontso.
He emphasized that community participation will be central to the bill’s implementation, ensuring equitable management of land rights as mining projects expand across the province.
Furthermore organiser of the Eastern Cape Mining Indaba Thando Mandela, commended Premier Mabuyane’s ongoing efforts to attract investors while maintaining a balance between economic growth and spatial planning requirements. “Premier Mabuyane has reiterated his commitment to seeing these initiatives through to completion,” said Mandela. “This demonstrates the province’s unwavering dedication to inclusive economic development.”
Adding a social dimension to the discussions, Eastern Cape Department of Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa urged mining CEOs to work with government to safeguard the health and dignity of mineworkers.
“Turning the painful legacy of mining into a story of healing and shared prosperity starts with people-centred development and strong public-private partnerships,” she said.
In addition while Mabuyane noted that mining in the Eastern Cape remains small-scale, he emphasized the region’s abundant natural resources and the importance of harnessing them responsibly.
“Our province is rich in mineral potential. Through collaboration, clear land policies and sustainable practices, we can transform these resources into lasting prosperity for our people,” he said.
Photographs: supplied
