Parliament, Tuesday, 25 November 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has welcomed a presentation on the Mining Cadastre System following its pilot phase in the Western Cape, noting the system as an important step towards improving the mining licensing process in South Africa.
The committee expressed its eagerness to see a demonstration of the system soon and highlighted several key issues that the system must address, including preventing double granting of licences, reducing delays in adjudication and ensuring that small-scale and artisanal miners are adequately supported. It also emphasised the need for greater transparency in the application process, particularly in relation to how mining licences affect host communities.
Furthermore, the committee raised concerns about the integrity of the data inputted into the system and wanted assurance that only verified data will be used, to ensure the system’s credibility. Committee members took the opportunity to raise broader issues related to licensing timelines, which they believe are still too long and continue to negatively impact investment in the sector. For instance, environmental approvals for prospecting rights can take up to 247 days, and mining rights approvals can take as long as 350 days. The committee finds these timelines deeply concerning.
In response, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources confirmed its ongoing discussions with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to streamline environmental application processes and reduce these approval timelines.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Mikateko Mahlaule, said: “The Mining Cadastre System represents a critical tool in addressing the longstanding challenges faced by our mining sector, particularly in relation to licensing delays and transparency. However, it is crucial that we ensure the integrity of the data and that the system benefits all stakeholders, including small-scale miners and host communities. We are committed to ensuring that the system is used effectively and will push for improvements in licensing timelines to encourage investment in the sector."
Lastly, the committee stressed the significance of ensuring that the public and all interested stakeholders are fully informed about the new system. To this end, the committee will undertake to hold a virtual follow-up meeting to ensure broader participation and engagement.
ISSUDED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES, MR MIKATEKO MAHLAULE.
For media inquiries or to request an interview with the Chairperson, please contact Media Officer:
Mr. Justice Molafo
Cell: 081 424 7481
Email: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
Arrange a tour