EMALAHLENI — The official opening of Exxaro Resources’ new Matla Mine 1 operations in Kriel, Ga-Nala on 15 May 2026 has been hailed as a major boost for South Africa’s energy security, job creation and economic growth in Mpumalanga.
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe led the launch ceremony, describing the project as an important milestone for both the mining industry and the country’s electricity supply.
The newly developed operation forms part of Exxaro’s long-term Matla Life of Mine Project (MLOMP), aimed at extending the lifespan of the colliery while ensuring continued coal supply to Eskom’s Matla Power Station. The original Mine 1 operations were halted in 2016 following underground safety concerns linked to deteriorating safety pillars near the shaft infrastructure. Backed by a R5.236 billion investment, the new operation is expected to contribute approximately 4.2 million tonnes of coal annually, strengthening Eskom’s generation capacity and supporting South Africa’s energy needs.
Delivering the keynote address at the event, Mantashe reflected on his personal history with the mine, where he once worked as a mineworker and labour organiser.
“This is a journey back home for me,” Mantashe said.
“I spent six years at this mine, working here and organising here, and during that same period we achieved production records. I was here as a worker, and today I return as a Minister.”
The minister added that the coal sector continues to play a critical role in South Africa’s economy despite increasing global pressure on fossil fuels.
“People have often said that coal is a dying industry because of concerns around pollution. However, the industry continues to evolve, particularly through improvements in mining safety and ongoing investment in innovation and research. Coal miners should never be ashamed of the work they do,” he said.
Mantashe further emphasised that the investment in Matla Mine 1 would not only benefit Mpumalanga, but would also contribute significantly towards the country’s broader economic growth, energy stability and industrial development.
National Union of Mineworkers representative Commy Booysen welcomed the investment, saying the project represents more than the reopening of a mining operation.
“Today is not only about opening a mine. It is about creating opportunities, sustaining jobs, growing communities and securing the future of workers and their families,” said Booysen.
He added that organised labour supports investments that prioritise worker safety, skills development and community upliftment. “As the union, we remain committed to building a mining industry that is safe, transformed and beneficial to workers and communities,” he said. Caroline Shirindza, Executive Head of Coal at Exxaro Resources, said the project reflects the interconnected role mining plays in the country’s broader economy and energy sector.
“As miners, we do not simply extract coal. We contribute towards keeping homes, industries and hospitals powered across South Africa,” Shirindza said. She described the opening of Mine 1 as the beginning of a new chapter built on resilience, collaboration and long-term planning.
“This milestone demonstrates our commitment to South Africa’s energy security and our belief in the future of this programme,” she said. Ben Magara, Chief Executive Officer of Exxaro Resources, said the development reflects the company’s long-term vision and commitment to economic growth through mining investment.
Beyond energy production, the project has delivered significant economic benefits in Mpumalanga, including the creation of approximately 1 132 local employment opportunities and more than R532 million invested in black-owned businesses.
The project has also supported local Small Medium Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and prioritised skills development initiatives within surrounding communities.
Dan Marokane, Group Chief Executive of Eskom, said the expansion of Matla Mine 1 demonstrates how collaboration between Eskom and Exxaro can support stable electricity supply while the country transitions towards a diversified energy future.
Marokane also highlighted that the milestone comes as Eskom marks 365 consecutive days without load-shedding.
The media statement further revealed that Eskom and Exxaro signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2025 focusing on emissions reduction, carbon capture and initiatives aimed at supporting a responsible just energy transition.
For communities surrounding eMalahleni, Kriel and Ga-Nala, the project is expected to bring renewed economic activity and long-term employment opportunities, reinforcing Mpumalanga’s role at the centre of South Africa’s energy economy.
