GQEBERHA – Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has issued a stern warning to the Eastern Cape office of the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, demanding strict compliance with sand mining regulations following widespread illegal mining activities. This follows a statement released yesterday, 27 January 2026.
The parliamentary committee expressed strong concern over what it described as “lax compliance” that has enabled illegal sand mining from estuaries, rivers and coastal areas throughout the province.
The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act governs all mining activities in South Africa, requiring proper licensing and environmental compliance for sand extraction operations.
17-year licensing delay highlights system failures
During a recent visit to Gqeberha, committee members encountered a sand-mining company that has spent 17 years attempting to convert its old-order mining licence to a new-order mining right under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA).
“Seventeen years for an administrative process is far too long and opens the system to abuse,” stated committee Chairperson Mikateko Mahlaule in the parliamentary statement.
“We consider the escalating illegal sand mining to be concerning and an area requiring strong enforcement by the department.”
Ultimatum issued to company and department
The committee has issued a two-week deadline for both the Gqeberha company and the provincial department to resolve outstanding compliance issues, including:
- Submission of comprehensive social and labour plans
- Proper establishment of community mining trusts
- Implementation of rehabilitation plans for illegally mined areas
Call for enhanced enforcement measures
Despite acknowledging human-resource challenges within the provincial department, the committee emphasised that authorities must “enforce the law without emotion.” The statement outlined specific enforcement tools that should be utilised, including:
- Criminal prosecution proceedings
- Administrative fines
- Licence suspensions
Companies failing to meet regulatory requirements face the prospect of losing their mining rights entirely, the committee warned.
Rural mining misconceptions need addressing
The parliamentary statement highlighted a significant communication gap, particularly in rural areas where many companies incorrectly believe sand mining operates without regulation.
“We are aware that many companies, especially in rural areas, believe that sand mining is not regulated and that no application process is required,” Mahlaule noted. “This misconception can only be addressed through enhanced communication with the public.”
The committee has urged the department to strengthen its developmental communication efforts to ensure artisanal and small-scale mining operations achieve compliance whilst contributing to local economic development.
