The reopening of a long-idled coal mine in Mpumalanga is expected to create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity across the Kriel region, marking another investment aimed at reviving South Africa’s mining sector.
Asure Resources has announced the official reopening of the former Fentonia Coal Mine, which will now operate as Asure Colliery after remaining under care and maintenance since 2018.
The company said the project has already generated more than 120 direct jobs and expects employment to expand further as production increases.
Officials estimate that the mine could ultimately support around 150 direct positions, while creating as many as 700 additional employment opportunities throughout the broader mining supply chain, including transport, engineering, logistics, equipment supply and contractor services.
Mine revival expected to support regional growth
Chief executive Emmanuel Ngulube said the reopening represents more than the return of mining operations, describing it as an opportunity to stimulate sustainable economic development in Kriel and neighbouring communities.
According to the company, employment has already been created across mining operations, engineering, maintenance, administration, security and logistics.
As production ramps up, demand is also expected to increase for rail transport, catering services, equipment suppliers and other businesses linked to the mining industry.
Ngulube said the company measures success not only by direct employment numbers but also by the wider economic benefits generated for local families, entrepreneurs and future generations.
The project also forms part of Asure Resources’ broader transformation strategy.
The company said 50% of its board consists of young and black representatives, while women make up approximately 80% of its workforce across group operations.
In addition to mining activities, Asure Resources plans to invest in training programmes focused on engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence and digital technologies through planned Fourth Industrial Revolution learning laboratories.
Ngulube said the goal is to prepare young South Africans for industries expected to shape the country’s future economy rather than simply creating short-term employment.
Community urges local hiring as operations expand
The reopening has been welcomed by community leaders, although they have called on the company to ensure local residents benefit directly from the new investment.
Carolina Community Forum chairperson Makhaza Ntuli said mining companies have often been criticised for overlooking nearby communities when recruiting employees.
She encouraged Asure Resources to engage regularly with residents and provide clear information about employment opportunities and business prospects arising from the project.
Ntuli stressed that while opportunities should remain open to applicants from other regions, local residents should also receive fair access to available positions.
She also called on local authorities to improve communication with communities about new mining developments and their potential economic impact.
Beyond employment, Asure Resources believes the reopened mine can contribute to South Africa’s long-term energy security.
The company noted that Asure Colliery previously supplied coal approved by Eskom and remains strategically located within the Mpumalanga coalfields, positioning it to support future energy demand as existing coal reserves mature and long-term supply agreements evolve.
The reopening reflects broader efforts within South Africa’s mining sector to restore dormant assets, attract investment and create employment while balancing economic development with community participation.
Source: The Citizen