The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) welcomes government’s announcement of a new mineral rights application system (cadastral) operator.  This has been a matter of great concern to the Federation and our affiliate, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), workers in the mining industry, value chains and mining communities across South Africa. 

COSATU shares the views of industry that the current applications system has been woefully inadequate and stifled investments and growth in the mining industry. 

We welcome the progressive commitment by the Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr. Gwede Mantashe, that appointed service providers will install a modern, efficient and transparent system and the suffocating backlog of applications will be dealt with over the course of 2024.

Once implemented, the new mining rights application system will mark a major turn of fortunes for the industry with new investments, jobs and state revenue.  Workers, the economy, public services and the nation need to see the unlocking of the mining industry and the economy’s growth.  This is a positive sign that South Africa under the leadership of the President Cyril Ramaphosa and the African National Congress is turning the corner.  This will bring hope for thousands of mine workers who have born the brunt of retrenchment notices. 

The Federation will be requesting regular updates be provided to Organised Labour and Business at Nedlac to ensure this commitment is expedited and no stone is left unturned to unlock the mining industry. 

Issued by COSATU

For further information please contact:
Matthew Parks
Acting National Spokesperson & Parliamentary Coordinator 
Cell: 082 785 0687