‘Life after mining’: Experts call for post-mining economy strategy for former miners

Mining companies that once operated in Marikana and various regions across the North West province have left a trail of poverty in their wake. This has driven former employees to turn to illegal mining, according to mining activist Brown Matloko. Speaking during an online discussion about the state of life in Marikana and other former mining communities 14 years after the Marikana massacre, Matloko highlighted the consequences of illegal mining.

"14 illegal miners lost their lives recently when heavy rain caused an open case mine shaft to collapse," he said, emphasizing that while they do not condone illegal mining, some individuals are forced into it due to job loss following mine closures. Matloko stressed that retrenchment affects families, as the loss of income impacts their livelihoods.

He also pointed out that mining companies extract profits while leaving host communities in poverty. A post-mining economy strategy is essential, according to Matloko, as there is no other solution. Mining analyst David van Wyk echoed this sentiment, calling for the development of a post-mining economic strategy in South Africa.

His focus was on repurposing and re-engineering former mines for post-mining economic activities, noting that minerals are non-renewable and unsustainable. Van Wyk suggested diversifying the economy and transitioning to small- and medium-scale, including artisanal mining. The decommissioned mining infrastructure could power new industries, such as providing gas and solar energy.

Old mine electricity substations could be utilized to generate solar energy from mine wasteland, while methane from old shafts could be extracted. Van Wyk argued that large-scale industrial mining is declining, and the state should foster conditions for artisanal, small- and medium-scale mining, as well as community-based industries to add value to extracted minerals like diamonds, gold, and platinum.

The strategy could also create employment opportunities in affected mining communities by converting the extensive infrastructure into essential facilities such as clinics, schools, and other useful resources.