On February 5, 2026, the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency (MGCA) hosted the inaugural meeting of the Mine Land Rehabilitation and Repurposing Technical Task Team at the Nkangala District Municipal offices.

The purpose of this meeting was to officially launch the task team and review the draft Terms of Reference. The primary goal of the MMRRTTT is to provide technical expertise, advice, knowledge, insights, best practices, and strategic coordination support to ensure that mine rehabilitation and repurposing activities in Mpumalanga are environmentally sound, socially equitable, and contribute to the development of a resilient, diversified, and economically sustainable green economy.

Mr Nkosinathi Nkonyane, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of MGCA, chaired the session. In his opening remarks, he emphasised the critical importance of bringing together industry expertise to shape the task team and determine its direction.

MGCA’s Programme Manager, Mr Thamsanqa Mkhonza, presented the draft Terms of Reference, outlining key details for all attendees. The goal was to invite comments and suggestions to ensure that the document reflects a collective voice. During his presentation, he stated that the purpose of the meeting is to build a committee focused on mine rehabilitation and to turn any challenges presented into opportunities. He also emphasised that the committee should avoid conducting feasibility studies without an accompanying action or pilot plan.

Representatives from the following institutions attended:

– DARDLEA

– SALGA

– Council of Geo-Science

– GIZ

– DMPR

– Seriti Green

– DEDT

– Ehlanzeni District Municipality

Every stakeholder expressed support for the task team, noting that its establishment in the province would foster collaboration and prevent organisations from working in isolation. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that all parties are aligned and working towards common objectives.

Following the outline of the draft Terms of Reference, stakeholders were invited to provide input, comments, and suggestions to ensure the document reflects a consensus that everyone can agree on. Professor Thokozane suggested involving the University of Mpumalanga to establish a Bachelor of Mine Rehabilitation program, thereby ensuring that expertise in mine rehabilitation is cultivated within the province for longevity. He also highlighted the importance of including local municipalities in the task team, asserting that their participation is key.

Most stakeholders recommended that DMPR should chair the committee. However, Sis Dudu from DARDLEA proposed that instead of the committee electing a secretariat, the MGCA should take on that role since they initiated the first meeting and have already brought everyone together. This would also align with their secretariat duties within the province.

It was resolved that the next workshop would be held in person, allowing for detailed discussions, while subsequent engagements will be held virtually.