The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy acknowledges the judgment delivered by the High Court, Gauteng Division Pretoria, on 20 December 2024, in the matter brought by Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA). The urgent application sought to compel the State Respondents to provide immediate humanitarian aid—including food, water, and medication—to illegal miners at the Stilfontein mine and to initiate rescue operations within 24 hours, with weekly progress reports.

After thorough consideration of arguments presented by legal counsel for both MACUA (Adv De Vos SC) and the State Respondents (Adv Badenhorst SC), Acting Justice Mazibuko dismissed the application with costs. The court found that the State Respondents do not have a legal obligation or mandate to provide the requested aid in this instance.

The Department respects and welcomes the court’s judgment, which aligns with the legal framework governing its responsibilities. However, we remain deeply concerned about the plight of the illegal miners and the challenges faced by their families and communities.

While the court has clarified the Department’s mandate, we emphasize our commitment to supporting collaborative efforts between government agencies, local authorities, and stakeholders to address the situation within the scope of our responsibilities. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we urge all parties involved to continue working urgently to find a solution.

https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202311/49711gon4062.pdf

For enquiries: mediadesk@dmre.gov.za

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Issued by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy