TZANEEN – Concerns are mounting in the Haenertsburg-Magoebaskloof and Wolkberg region after a third gold prospecting application has been submitted for the same environmentally sensitive landscape, while another application has reportedly been withdrawn and a separate one remains ongoing.

3rd application targets ecologically sensitive area

The latest application, submitted by DANE Projects (Pty) Ltd and managed by environmental consultants Muvhengo (Pty) Ltd, concerns Farm Aden 1 KT.

Also read: Second Wolkberg mining application sparks alarm

The area forms part of a broader ecological corridor known for its forests, mountain catchments, and proximity to strategic water source areas that support downstream water supply systems.

Community members and stakeholders have raised concerns about what they describe as repeated attempts to open the region to mineral prospecting.

Some residents say the cumulative pressure from multiple applications increases uncertainty for landowners and raises long-term environmental risks for sensitive ecosystems.

Resident raises red flags 

Interested and affected party (I&AP) Calvin Becker, who has been engaging with the current application process, has also raised procedural concerns about access to information and timelines.

In an email dated March 11, he requested formal registration as an I&AP and requested key documents, including the draft basic assessment report (BAR) and environmental management plan (EMP), as well as details of public participation meetings.

Despite follow-up requests on March 12 and 16 for documentation and meeting details, Becker later expressed concern that he had not received sufficient information ahead of the stated April 4 comment deadline.

Key documents arrive after deadline

On March 30, he expressed concern about not receiving sufficient information before the deadline for submitting comments on the application.

By April 4, he noted that the deadline had passed without the promised draft BAR document or responses to his questions, and formally lodged an objection to the application process.

He later confirmed that the draft BAR was only received on April 13, after the public comment deadline had passed, and again requested information on public participation meetings and the consultant’s website.

Long-term risks

Environmental groups have repeatedly warned that the Wolkberg region is ecologically sensitive, forming part of key catchment systems that supply water to surrounding communities and agricultural areas. It is also recognised for its biodiversity and tourism value.

While the applicant says the project could create jobs, skills development, and local economic benefits, critics argue these claims must be weighed against the potential long-term environmental impacts of mining exploration in such a sensitive area.

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has not yet made a final decision, and the public participation process is ongoing as stakeholders continue submitting comments.