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The Impact of Mine Downscaling on the Free State Goldfields

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Abstract

Mine downscaling is a common international phenomenon; and the deindustrialisation related to mining that occurred in the global north between 1960 and 1990 has been the focus of numerous studies. Mine downscaling in Africa, and more specifically in South Africa, has only risen to prominence in the last two decades. This paper examines the consequences of mine downscaling in the Free State Goldfields of South Africa, against the background of similar impacts in the international arena. Although many of the experiences recorded in the case study mirror the international experience, it is argued that it is probably unrealistic to expect local attempts alone to address mine downscaling, since the magnitude of such downscaling, as described in the paper, is too vast. Subsequently, the paper argues in favour of local partnerships, but with a national strategy for locations that have been affected by the impact of mine downscaling.

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Notes

  1. It should be noted that the initial definition of the Free State Goldfields region included the following towns: Welkom, Virginia, Allanridge, Hennenman, Odendaalsrus and Theunissen. Theunissen was included because Beatrix Mine is located in the Theunissen magisterial district. Beatrix Mine is currently located in the Masilonyana Local Municipality, which has its headquarters in Theunissen. The six towns in the current Matjhabeng Local Municipality are Welkom, Virginia, Allanridge, Hennenman, Odendaalsrus and Ventersburg. I have opted to use the term “Free State Goldfields”, but there are cases where reference is made to some of the individual towns, or the respective municipalities.

  2. The Lejweleputswa District Municipality includes Matjhabeng and Masilonyana, Nala, Moghaka and Tswelopele.

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Acknowledgement

An earlier version of this paper was conducted for the Industrial Development Corporation with substantial input from Dr Karel van der Walt.

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  1. Centre for Development Support, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa

    Lochner Marais

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  1. Lochner Marais
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Correspondence to Lochner Marais.

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Marais, L. The Impact of Mine Downscaling on the Free State Goldfields. Urban Forum 24, 503–521 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12132-013-9191-3

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