27 Aug 2025

The ongoing illegal mining of manganese at Kgwakgwe Hill in Kanye poses a significant threat to the nation’s economic development initiatives.

Kgosi Obusitswe Solomon of Kgwakgwe said during a kgotla meeting addressed by Kanye West legislator Mr Victor Phologolo on Monday that the site continued to attract numerous unauthorised miners from across the country who were seeking manganese.

He recounted an incident where a man was apprehended by the police after confessing to engaging in illegal mining at the site for over two years, during which he operated a processing plant in Rasesa.

Beyond the immediate issue of unauthorised mining, Kgosi Solomon highlighted the growing problem of illegal dumping of litter around Kgwakgwe Hill.

He warned that such actions could tarnish the country’s image in front of potential investors.

He highlighted the imminent arrival of Giyani Metals Corporation, through its subsidiary Menzi Battery Minerals, which had plans to commence operations at the site.

Kgosi Solomon said it would be unfortunate for the company to find the area in a neglected state.

Resident, Mr Frankel Mohutsiwa further emphasised the severity of the situation, noting that illegal mining activities predominantly occur during the night, often involving trucks that had no registration plates.

This, he argued, indicated a potential organised crime operation. 

He reported sporadic piles of manganese being prepared for transport, raising concerns about government’s neglect of the hill since closing mining operations in previous years.

Mr Mohutsiwa questioned the lack of government’s action to secure Kgwakgwe Hill, especially given its economic potential.

He stressed the importance of protecting the site while awaiting the resumption of operations by Giyani Metals Corporation.

In his remarks, Mr Phologolo stated that his recent visit to Kgwakgwe Hill revealed significant illegal dumping on the premises.

He warned residents that such activities were prohibited and presented serious health risks.

Mr Phologolo mentioned that he was scheduled to meet with representatives from Giyani Metals Corporation, although the meeting could not take place due to a prior board commitment on that day.

He committed to keeping the public informed about developments concerning the mine following his meeting with the company’s management.

The Giyani Metals Corporation project, which targets a supergene-enriched manganiferous shale deposit within the Black Reef Quartzite Formation of the Transvaal Supergroup, aims to produce high-purity manganese sulfate monohydrate for the electric vehicle battery market.

The initiative holds the potential for job creation and a boost to the local economy, underscoring the necessity of addressing the illegal mining problem promptly. ENDS