Maruleng moves to curb illegal Blyde River mining
Maruleng engages stakeholders to fight illegal gold mining threatening the Blyde River with toxic pollution, endangering farms, wildlife, and communities.
HOEDSPRUIT – Maruleng Local Municipality has taken a proactive stance against the growing threat of illegal gold mining in the Blyde River catchment, engaging with residents, farmers, and conservationists to discuss solutions to the escalating crisis.
Mayor Tsheko Musolwa, joined by acting municipal manager Lesley Muroa and director for spatial planning and economic development Amos Matyiya, met with concerned stakeholders at the Landman Packhouse outside Hoedspruit.
The engagement formed part of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to address the environmental and socio-economic consequences of illegal mining in the area.
Toxic chemicals spark urgent concern
Stakeholders raised urgent concerns about toxic chemicals used by illegal miners and stored in open ponds near the Blyde River. These chemicals, which include harmful substances such as mercury and cyanide, are reportedly seeping into the water system.
According to local conservation groups, spillages from these operations are already flowing downstream from Pilgrim’s Rest, endangering agriculture, wildlife, and human health. Musolwa described the situation as “alarming and unsustainable,” stressing the urgent need for government intervention and coordinated action across all sectors.
“We cannot afford to sit back while our water sources and agricultural economy are under threat,” said Musolwa. “All spheres of government must take decisive action to stop illegal mining and find long-lasting solutions.”
The mayor added that the municipality would continue working closely with affected communities, law enforcement agencies, and conservation bodies to ensure the sustainability of the Blyde River ecosystem. The aim, he said, is to protect not only the environment but also the livelihoods of residents who depend on clean water and agricultural productivity.
Petition pushes for national intervention
The meeting follows growing public pressure for immediate government action. An online petition, initiated by environmental advocate Lauren Booth of Kruger to Canyons (K2C), has already attracted over 1 500 signatures and continues to gain traction.
The petition is addressed to Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, urging a coordinated crackdown on illegal mining operations threatening water security, biodiversity, and public health.
Booth and other advocates hope to reach 2 000 signatures, underscoring widespread concern about the region’s environmental future. “This is not just a local issue, it is a national crisis in the making,” she said in a statement shared with supporters.
As the Blyde River remains one of South Africa’s most vital freshwater sources, stakeholders warn that without urgent intervention, unchecked illegal mining could lead to irreversible ecological and economic damage.
