THROUGH responsible mining, beneficiation and skills development, the Eastern Cape is turning its mineral wealth into a sustainable driver of growth, enterprise and dignity for generations to come, Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane told delegates at the 3rd Eastern Cape Province Mining CSI Indaba held in East London from 30-31 October.
The premier said that mining remains a cornerstone of the province’s economic transformation, alongside the oceans economy, agriculture, and advanced manufacturing. “Our approach is guided by responsible growth, broad-based participation and value chain industrialisation,” he said.
According to Mabuyane, key progress has been made in the expansion of kaolin, limestone, and manganese exploration across the Amathole, Chris Hani, and Sarah Baartman Districts.
He added that the revival of Elitheni coal mine in in Emalahleni had created 84 jobs and was revitalising local communities.
“Without leaving behind the completion of three successful blasting operations and over 15,000 tonnes of coal mined and stockpiled, with promising laboratory results.
“Elitheni is more than a mine — it is a story of resilience, renewal, and opportunity, demonstrating how collaborative efforts between government, municipalities, and investors can restore hope and livelihoods,” the premier said.
The mining sector’s contribution to the Eastern Cape’s economy is relatively small compared to other provinces in South Africa. According to 2023 data, the Eastern Cape mining sector accounted for a modest 0.2% of the provincial GDP.
