TZANEEN – A second mining prospecting application lodged within a matter of months has heightened environmental concern in the Wolkberg region of Upper Letaba catchment, an area widely regarded for its ecological sensitivity and importance as a strategic water source.

Site lies in protected wilderness area

Hluvukani Mineral Resources (Pty) Ltd has applied for gold prospecting rights on Wolkberg Farm 634 LT. Portions of the proposed site fall within the Wolkberg Wilderness Area, a protected mountain landscape known for its steep terrain, high biodiversity, and fragile ecosystems.

The Wolkberg forms part of the Upper Letaba catchment, which plays a critical role in supplying water to downstream ecosystems, agricultural activity, and surrounding communities.

Prospecting threatens water quality

Concerns have been raised that prospecting activities typically involve drilling, trenching, vegetation clearing, and increased human presence in previously undisturbed areas.

While often described as temporary, these activities may trigger soil erosion, destabilise slopes, and threaten water quality in sensitive catchment systems, according to the Mountain Environmental Watch group in Haenertsburg.

The region’s steep topography and high rainfall further increase the risk of erosion once vegetation is disturbed.

Environmental observers have also pointed to the growing number of mining-related applications in the broader Wolkberg area, warning that cumulative impacts could place sustained pressure on an already vulnerable ecosystem.

Public meeting set for May 2

The environmental consultation process is being facilitated by AK Enviro (Pty) Ltd, with members of the public invited to register as interested and affected parties (I&APs).

A public meeting is scheduled for May 2 in Lephephane village, where stakeholders will have an opportunity to engage with the proposed prospecting activities and submit comments as part of the assessment process.

Previous applications withdrawn

This latest application follows a recent application by Consulting Evolution Mining (Pty) Ltd for prospecting rights, also in the Wolkberg area, near Haenertsburg, covering minerals such as copper, gold, iron, nickel, and tungsten.

This application was withdrawn after pressure from residents and environmental groups, such as Mountain Environmental Watch.

Warnings of irreversible damage

Conservationists warn that the growing number of mining applications signals increasing pressure on one of Limpopo’s most ecologically sensitive regions.

They argue that the Wolkberg is both a biodiversity hotspot and a key water-production area vital to regional water security.

Environmental scientist Dr Bronwyn Egan cautioned that the area provides essential ecosystem services, including water regulation, soil stability, and nutrient cycling, which cannot easily be restored once damaged or replaced by mining activity.

To register as an I&AP, email ak.enviro@yahoo.com or call 068 365 5429. For more information on the public meeting, email mew@haenertsburg.co.za.