South Africa: a gradual deconfinement in the mining sector

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Since Monday May 4, several sectors such as agriculture, industry, take-out catering or the mining industry which represents 8% of gross domestic product (GDP) have been authorized to resume their activity. A decision taken by the government to avoid a collapse of the country's economy.

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All mines in the country will now be able to gradually resume. Coal mines - which turned 50% during containment to supply power plants - will thus be able to resume at full capacity. The same is true for all surface mines.

Only underground mines - that is, many gold, platinum and copper mines - will only be able to operate at half their capacity. Working in galleries several kilometers underground and in confined spaces is problematic. It will indeed be necessary to limit the number of miners working in these tunnels.

Strict sanitary conditions have been imposed such as the wearing of a mask, the provision of disinfectant products, but above all mining companies have the obligation to screen their employees and, if necessary, isolate and treat them.

A few days ago, one of the main miners' unions also obtained in court that strict measures be demanded from the mining companies.

For the government, it is crucial to restart this sector of activity. Even though it represents only 8% of the economy, it employs around half a million people who support almost 10 million South Africans themselves.

► Read also: Coronavirus in South Africa: the relaxation of containment raises concerns

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• South Africa
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