Mantashe’s visit raises hope for KwaZulu-Natal’s coal mining legacy, despite huge challenges
While the coal industry in KwaZulu-Natal faces undeniable hurdles, the region's leaders and stakeholders are striving to adapt. With focused efforts on community upliftment, education, and improved relations between mining companies and residents, there is cautious optimism that the province's mining legacy can coexist with progress.
KwaZulu-Natal has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s coal mining industry for over a century.
However, the province’s once-thriving production has dwindled significantly. At its peak in 1982, KwaZulu-Natal produced 20 million tons of coal annually.
Today, production has declined to 300,000 tons transported by road and 1.9 million tons by rail, primarily for export through the ports.
This sharp drop stems from a combination of factors, including difficult mining conditions, ageing mines nearing the limits of extraction, and shifts in demand.
Despite these challenges, there is renewed optimism for revitalising the coal-rich Dannhauser region, bolstered by political attention and initiatives to support local communities.
Hopes for rejuvenation in Dannhauser rose last year with the appointment of ANC heavyweight Gwede Mantashe as the Member of Parliament for the area. Mantashe, who also serves as the Minister of Mineral Resources & Energy, succeeded Jabu Khumalo.
Accompanied by his deputy, Phumzile Mgcina, Mantashe last week visited Lengola High School and Cooper Primary School in Dannhauser as part of their ‘Back to School’ campaign. The initiative aims to assess school readiness and inspire learners to prioritise education as a means of transforming their lives.
(Images courtesy of the MQA)
The campaign is part of a broader strategy to provide resources like school uniforms and study materials, with commitments from state-owned entities and mining houses. Campaign spokesperson Lerato Ntsoko emphasised the importance of education, regardless of socio-economic circumstances.
Mining sector’s support for education
At the event, Senior Regional Manager of the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Tshepo Tsotetsi highlighted the organisation’s pledge to support learners in the area.
The MQA’s goal is to ensure that the mining and minerals sector has a competent workforce to improve health and safety, employment equity, and productivity.
Representatives from major companies such as Seriti, Exxaro, Kangra Coal, Sasol and Mintek joined local leaders, including Dannhauser Mayor BA Hadebe, in reaffirming their commitment to the community.
In a closed meeting with mining and community representatives, Mantashe urged mining companies to strengthen their contributions to local communities. His call comes amid ongoing tensions between coal mines and residents, particularly in the Newcastle area, where disputes over expansion plans, environmental concerns and community impacts have escalated.
These challenges are compounded by declining international coal prices and increasing production costs driven by government and environmental regulations.
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