Swaziland’s diverse and ancient rock structures are rich in minerals and the country’s mining sector dates back to ancient history. The dormant iron ore mine in the western Ngwenya mountain, which ceased operating in 1975, has been developed into a tourist attraction and lies next to the oldest excavation site in the world, dating back to the Iron Age. Minerals are vested in the King in trust for the nation, with mining royalties paid to Tisuka Taka Ngwane, a trust established for the nation by King Sobhuza II in 1976.
Specific legislation applies to the granting of mineral rights and the exploration and exploitation of these natural resources. Performance The mining sector’s performance has declined considerably during the past decade with the closure of the diamond mine in 1997 and the asbestos mine a few years later. The only mineral commodities presently excavated are anthracite coal and quarried stone.
Both have performed negatively and their contribution to the economy is minimal. Coal Production fell by 25.8% from 174,807 tonnes to 129,647 tonnes. This may partly be attributed to the closure of a number of South African smelter plants, which bought a large proportion of the local anthracite. Thus export revenue was down by 15.1% to record E101.1 million. Quarried Stone Production of quarried stone decreased by 16% from240,997 cu.m to 202,319 cu.m. This is in line with the completion of various capital projects, particularly roads, during the period. Despite this, revenue was up by 9.8% to E12.1 million.
Sand and Soapstone Excavation of these minerals is strictly controlled under the Mineral and Environmental Authority Act in order to prevent environmental damage and rigid penalties apply to anyone violating the legislation. Other Mineral Deposits Deposits of kaolin, talc and silica have been identified in Swaziland but despite investigations to determine the viability of mining these resources, no activity has taken place.
There is no activity with gold, of which there are deposits in the north-west of the country. Deposits of green chert have been located in the Malolotja/Ngwenya area but these have not been exploited because of negative environmental implications.