By Rorisang Modiba
- Qala Shallows has officially started operations after finding a virgin block of gold between Soweto and Roodepoort.
- CEO Rudi Deysel says illegal mining in the area has stopped as the five hundred million dollar project brings new life to the community.
South Africa has struck gold again. For the first time in 15 years, a brand new underground gold mine has opened its doors.
Qala Shallows is officially in business on the West Rand.
Located between Soweto and Roodepoort, the mine promises to bring huge economic relief to an area that desperately needs it.
CEO Rudi Deysel says the project will create more than 1,000 jobs.
“This moment comes after almost 10 years of work,” Deysel told Kaya Biz.
His team started the project in 2016. They had to fight through permit delays and the Covid-19 pandemic to get here.
But the wait was worth it. The mine extracted its first ore in late October, just as the gold price hit strong levels.
For years, people thought the gold in the area was finished. But Deysel’s team discovered a “virgin block” of untouched gold near the surface, going down 850 metres.
The project is valued at $500-million.
It targets the Kimberley Reef using modern technology. Instead of dangerous old methods, the mine uses hydropower and mechanised tunnels to keep workers safe.
Deysel also had good news about the zama zamas who used to trouble the area.
He says illegal mining there has stopped because of new housing developments and the mine’s efforts to stabilise the community.
Pictured above: Underground mining operations.
Image source: Africa is Home/Facebook
