Mining has long been integral to the development and advancement of South Africa's economy and has contributed largely in making its economy the strongest on the continent. read more
In 2004, the coal and lignite mining industry generated a gross income of R39 billion and directly employed 50,000 people. The Witbank Coalfield accounts for 40% of South Africa's coal production. Mining. The five largest coal mining companies account for around 85% of all production. read more
"Acid mine drainage from coal mining areas has had a devastating impact on water resources, with acidification of rivers and streams, elevated metal levels and consequent fish die-offs", said a report released by the WWF South Africa in 2011. read more