By Thapelo Molefe
The South African mining industry has achieved a significant milestone, recording the lowest number of fatalities in its history.
According to the 2024 Mine Health and Safety Statistics released by Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, the industry saw a 24% improvement in fatalities, with 42 reported deaths in 2024 compared to 55 in 2023.
“We are encouraged that our efforts continue to show a sustainable downward trend in occupational diseases, injuries and fatalities,” Mantashe told reporters in Pretoria on Thursday.
“This record is a result of concerted effort by all parties involved in providing and maintaining a safe working environment.”
There were notable improvements in the gold, platinum and coal sectors.
The gold sector saw a year-on-year improvement of 45% from 20 to 11 deaths, platinum 14% from 22 to 19 fatalities, and coal 14% from 7 to 6 deaths.
The industry saw a drop
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