Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has endorsed the Mining Cadastre System following its pilot phase in the Western Cape, while cautioning that significant issues around licensing delays, data integrity and transparency must still be resolved to strengthen South Africa’s mining application process.

The committee said on November 26 that it regarded the new system as an important step towards improving the country’s licensing framework and welcomed a presentation delivered to members the day before.

It noted its intention to view a full demonstration soon and stressed that the system must help prevent the double granting of licences, reduce adjudication delays and ensure that small-scale and artisanal miners are properly supported.

The committee further emphasised the need for clearer transparency in the application process, particularly regarding how mining licences affect host communities.

Concerns were raised over the accuracy of information being entered into the system, with committee members asking for assurance that only verified data would be used to maintain the system’s credibility.

Members also highlighted broader issues around licensing timelines, stating that lengthy approval periods continued to hinder investment in the sector.

Environmental approvals for prospecting rights can take up to 247 days, while mining rights approvals can take as long as 350 days. The committee described these timeframes as deeply concerning.

In response, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it was in ongoing discussions with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to streamline the environmental application process and reduce approval timelines.

“The Mining Cadastre System represents a critical tool in addressing the longstanding challenges faced by our mining sector, particularly in relation to licensing delays and transparency.

“However, it is crucial that we ensure the integrity of the data and that the system benefits all stakeholders, including small-scale miners and host communities. We are committed to ensuring the system is used effectively and will push for improvements in licensing timelines to encourage investment in the sector," portfolio committee chairperson Mikateko Mahlaule said.

The committee also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the public and all interested stakeholders were fully informed about the new system. It said it planned to hold a virtual follow-up meeting to allow for broader participation and engagement.