West Wits Mining has officially inaugurated the Qala Shallows underground gold mine west of Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone for South Africa's mining industry. This commissioning represents the country's first new underground gold operation in 15 years, heralding a renewed phase of growth and investment for the historically prolific Witwatersrand Basin Project (WBP).
The development signals a potential revival for a sector that has faced considerable challenges, aiming to tap into accessible shallow-grade ore bodies with modern, efficient methods.
The opening ceremony underscored the project's national importance, drawing a distinguished gathering of senior representatives. Key figures in attendance included South Africa's Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, Australian High Commissioner Tegan Brink, and Minerals Council South Africa CEO Mzila Mthenjane.
Their presence, alongside community leaders, project partners, investors, and media, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the venture and the broad stakeholder confidence in its potential to deliver economic benefits and reinforce South Africa's position as a leading gold producer.
West Wits CEO Rudi Deysel has highlighted the resurgence of mining in Johannesburg's Central Rand through the Qala Shallows project. He noted that, contrary to long-held beliefs that the area was exhausted, the project demonstrates how new underground gold mines remain possible with dedicated geological study, careful planning, disciplined execution, and effective public-private collaboration.
The Qala Shallows gold mine is on track for its first gold pour in March 2026. To prepare for the commissioning of the processing plant, a growing surface stockpile of ore, expected to reach approximately 30,000 tonnes, is already being established. Read more...
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