Dormant KZN mining sector to be revived

KZN's dormant coal mining sector to be revived

KwaZulu-Natal is set for another mining boom as moves are afoot to revive the province's dormant coal mining sector. This was revealed at a gathering in Durban last night attended by mining investors and experts.

The pending mining boom will come at the right time as there is a demand for coal to be used on the recently recommissioned power stations. Mining investors say there is great potential for mining in the province which has large deposits of coal that remain untapped.

The revival of the coal mining industry will create much needed jobs and also provide an opportunity for skills development. Small companies and new entrants in the mining industry also stand to benefit from the envisaged boom.

KZN, together with Mpumalanga, had been among the largest coal producers in the country until the early 90's when coal mines became obsolete. Experts say opportunities for women in the sector have increased and more women are being encouraged to venture into the industry.