Thungela has joined forces with Black Power Africa to mine the Schoongezicht mineral residue deposit in eMalahleni.

This partnership is unlocking new opportunities by safely and formally extracting the remaining coal reserves in compliance with legislation, while also creating jobs and supporting local businesses.

The remining project began in February 2026 and is already contributing to economic activity in the region.

Black Power Africa has employed 15 local individuals, engaged a further eight through a security service provider, and partnered with five community-based businesses.

Beyond mining, the company has also invested in community initiatives, sponsoring an Easter soccer tournament, supporting a police-led school debate competition, renovating classrooms at Witbank Primary School, and clearing rubble in Overline.

Mpumi Sithole, Thungela’s executive head of corporate affairs, emphasised that the partnership advances the objectives of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act by promoting equitable access to mineral resources and expanding opportunities for historically disadvantaged persons. She noted that in a context where illegal mining remains a serious challenge, structured projects like this provide a proactive and responsible response.

“In addition, this partnership also ensures that mining contributes to social and economic development in surrounding communities, while also encouraging participation of junior and emerging miners,” said Sithole.

Black Power Africa’s general manager, Jabulani Nkonyana, highlighted that the partnership has created a formal pathway for communities to be included in the mining value chain, while also growing capability and demonstrating the potential of responsible mining activity.

“This is a significant milestone for us because it has unlocked meaningful local business participation in a formal and structured way,” Nkonyana said.

The scope of work encompasses extraction, crushing, screening, stockpiling, and removal of material from the site, all of which are carried out in strict compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. This ensures that the project not only delivers economic benefits but also operates in a responsible manner.

Thungela has framed the partnership as part of its broader commitment to enabling communities to actively participate in the mining industry.

“This partnership reflects Thungela’s commitment to enabling communities to actively participate in the mining value chain responsibly. By empowering Black Power Africa, we are supporting local enterprise development, creating jobs, and contributing to the long-term socio-economic development of future generations in eMalahleni. This underscores our purpose to responsibly create value together for a shared future,” said Sithole.

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