Charles Molele
Mining companies in South Africa can only operate at 50% capacity during the lockdown period, the government said on Thursday.
Speaking at a media briefing by members of the National Command Council, Minister of Minerals and Energy Resources Gwede Mantashe said that the re-opening of mines would also happen in phases.
The South African mining industry, which employs more than 450 000 miners, came to a stop on March 27 following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a 21-day national lockdown.
“There’s full commitment in the industry to contribute to fighting Covid-19,” said Mantashe.
“Mining operations, excluding collieries that supply Eskom, shall be conducted at a reduced capacity of 50% during the period of the lockdown, and thereafter at increasing capacity as determined by the Cabinet member responsible for mineral resources and energy. We must maintain a risk-based approach.”
Mantashe urged mining companies to abide by government regulations.
“I urge
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