The lack of formal land ownership in communal areas is not only diluting the rights of people who live on this land, but also makes it difficult for mining companies to get the necessary consent for exploration and mining activities in these areas.

According to Bulelwa Mabasa, an attorney and head of land reform at Werksmans Attorneys, lack of formal tenure means people living in communal areas don’t have “individual, autonomous voices”. As a result, mining companies often don’t know who they need to consult when they want to get authorisation for mining activity on communally owned land...

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.