DSD DEPUTY MINISTER GANIEF HENDRICKS CALLS FOR SMART MINING TOWNS
by Staff Reporter.
- Mining towns cannot be left to become ghost towns once the mines close, says Social Development Minister Ganief Hendricks.
- More must be done, particularly by the mining companies, to diversify the economic landscape of such places, allowing them to thrive beyond the depletion of the minerals.
- This is where the concept of smart mining towns comes into play; opening opportunities through technology.
Several trees were planted at the newly unveiled Lebelelang Centre for People with Disabilities in Postmasburg, Northern Cape, on 12 September 2025 – Arbor Day.
Taking part in the symbolic occasion were the Minister for Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, and the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks.
After Minister Mantashe cut the ribbon and the deputy minister unveiled the plaque of the R40-million facility, Deputy Minister Hendricks spoke of the need for mining companies to develop sustainable communities.
Postmasburg is a small mining town some 170km east of Upington. It is predominantly known for its iron ore extraction.
“Mines cannot leave behind ghost towns when their operations cease. They know when this will happen, so they must plan for sustainable mining towns that can thrive beyond the depletion of minerals and beyond the lifespan of the liberation,” he said.
The concept of smart mining towns is crucial for South Africa’s sustainable development, focusing on creating communities that are sustainable forever, not just dependent on the mine.
The mines should rehabilitate the land and hand over title deeds to indigent residents, and the land must have a business plan for a productive activity.
Kumba Iron Ore and Anglo American, which operate in the area, do not seem to have a quarrel with this, but they must take the lead.
Hendricks called on Minister Mantashe and the African National Congress (ANC) to support his efforts to get all companies in South Africa to have a social and labour plan.
The deputy minister, who received an award in 2002 for pioneering the internet, AI, and the Internet of Things, expects mining companies to empower local communities, like the 25% ownership of Airlink by Postmasburg residents.
He also mentioned the possibility of an airport for the town, with equity ownership in the airport and airline by its residents, thereby promoting sustainable rural development.
The 25% share in Airlink that Postmasburg’s residents have sets a precedent for similar empowerment project by mining companies across South Africa.
Faisel Idris Sheikh leads the office of digital transformation and innovation unit in the minister of social development’s office.
As a specialist in smart cities and strategic development, Sheikh champions sustainable rural development through technology, leveraging his expertise in ICT, data law, corporate finance, and corporate governance.
This aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision for a digital revolution in government, emphasising the use of technology and AI to enhance service delivery and promote economic growth.
Deputy Minister Hendricks is confident that South Africa can create smart sustainable cities and prosperous mining communities that benefit all.
The National Development Agency, an agency of the Department of Social Development, will need to be at the forefront of such an initiative.
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