Deputy Mineral Resources Minister Godfrey Oliphant today ended a 2 ½-day visit to Vedanta Zinc International’s Black Mountain Mine (BMM) complex in the Northern Cape where he was able to take a detailed look at the developmental, operational and social components of the mine’s activities.

BMM, which produces zinc, lead, silver and copper, comprises the Deeps and Swartberg shafts and a processing plant, with the development of the new Gamsberg project well underway – after the Deputy Minister officiated at the sod turning ceremony for the project in July 2015.

The Deputy Minister said he was impressed by the progress made by the company since his last visit, and also by the crucial achievement of 1 million fatality-free shifts.

Said Deputy Minister Oliphant: “These days, doubts are often expressed by some about the country as a suitable investment destination, and by others about companies’ commitment to investment and to responsible mining. It has been heartening to see the enthusiasm and commitment of VZI and its Black Mountain Mine management and employees”.

The Deputy Minister was accompanied by the VZI CEO Deshnee Naidoo during the visit which began on Sunday evening and ended this morning.

They were briefed on the progress on the mining and metallurgy plant at Gamsberg and went on an underground visit at Swartberg where they evaluated the shaft’s safety and operational improvements as well as its growth plans.

Members of the operational and project teams were engaged in unpacking key issues the teams are dealing with, including new technology initiatives. The team shared their thoughts with the Deputy Minister on making BMM a conducive environment for women in mining, discussed the company’s housing initiatives, and the facility’s social investment activities in schools, medical facilities and training centres.

CEO Naidoo expressed her appreciation for the interest shown by the Deputy Minister and his team. “We also acknowledge the fair regulatory approach of the DMR in the region, which has assisted in sustaining and growing BMM, while providing useful guidance to our efforts on transformation and development.”

Issued by Vedanta Zinc International