The South African mining industry reported a historic low in fatalities and injuries in 2024, according to Minister of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe. The industry aims for zero physical harm to workers and improved mental health. The presentation highlighted a 16% decrease in injury rates and a reduction in fatalities from 55 in 2023 to 42 in 2024. The department also emphasized the fight against illegal mining, which Mantashe labeled a 'crime scene' and a 'leakage on the economy'.
Death and injury in South Africa’s mines are at an all-time low, says Minister of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe.
The mining industry recorded 42 fatalities in 2024, which was down from 55 the previous year, with 49 registered in 2022.Breaking down each sector, gold mines saw the loss of 11 lives, platinum recorded 19 fatalities and coal registered six. The remaining sectors recorded a combined total of six. Likewise, all sectors improved their number of hearing loss cases, with the diamond sector improving by 57%. Msiza chalked this up to the purchasing of quieter machinery.Msiza’s presentation 11.5% of miners had HIV in 2015, which had decreased to 5.8% in the most recent year.The department has aimed to increase the number of female miners in recent years, with 72 000 women now employed.
The minister said the illegal precious metals trade amounts to an estimated R60 billion and is “a leakage on the economy”.
MINING SAFETY SOUTH AFRICA INJURIES ILLEGAL MINING
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Tito Mboweni, Solly Moholo, and 14 Other South African Celebrities Who Tragically Died in 2024We looked at the 16 South African celebrities who tragically lost their lives in 2024 and some of the causes, from beloved actors to famous musicians.
Read more »
South Africa Wins Six Medals at 2024 Paralympics in ParisSouth African para-athletes secured six medals, including two gold, at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Simoné Kruger won gold in the Women's Discus F38, breaking the Paralympic record, while Mpumelelo Mhlongo claimed bronze in the Men's 200m T44 and set a new world record. The team also achieved four Paralympic records and 14 African records.
Read more »
South African Fuel Prices See Rollercoaster Year in 2024Fuel prices in South Africa experienced significant fluctuations in 2024, with prices peaking in early May before declining for five consecutive months. While prices rose again towards the end of the year, they remained lower than the highs seen in 2022. This volatility was attributed to a combination of lower international oil prices and a stronger rand, fueled by positive sentiment towards the South African Government of National Unity.
Read more »
South African Courts Busy in 2024 with High-Profile CasesThis year saw numerous high-profile cases playing out in South Africa's courts, including the ongoing trial surrounding the murder of football star Senzo Meyiwa and the private prosecution case against President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Read more »
Cheslin Kolbe's 2024: A Year of Triumph and Pride for South AfricaThis article highlights the standout moments of Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe in 2024, showcasing his achievements both on and off the field.
Read more »
3 South African Celebrities Who Became Parents in 2024Springboks flyhalf Handré Pollard and rapper Shane Eagle became parents for the first time as well as Muvhango actress Angela Atlang, who returned to the soapie.
Read more »