Lily Mine Receives Approval to Resume Operations

In a significant development, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has
given the green light for Vantage Goldfields to recommence operations at Lily and Barbrook
gold mines in Mpumalanga.

The decision comes after a tragic incident in 2016, where three mineworkers—Solomon
Nyirenda, Pretty Nkambule, and Yvonne Mnisi—were trapped underground in a container
due to a fall of ground accident at Lily Mine. Despite extensive rescue efforts, their bodies
were never recovered.

The approved plan entails sinking a decline/shaft to access the underground workings and
retrieve the container along with the missing employees.

Minister Gwede Mantashe, leading the engagement session, emphasized that while the
approval marks a significant step forward, the focus remains on reopening Lily Mine,
recovering the bodies, and providing closure to the affected families and workers.

The decision was made after consultations with various stakeholders, including Vantage
Goldfields, the Lomshiyo Traditional Council, the Business Rescue Practitioner, labor unions,
and government officials.

Mantashe cautioned against premature celebrations, emphasizing the need for intensified
efforts to expedite the reopening process and ensure swift resolution for the affected
families.

Operations are expected to resume later this year, pending the completion of the business
rescue process, scheduled to conclude by the end of July 2024.

All stakeholders, including representatives of the Lomshiyo Traditional Council, the
Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), and the Congress of South
African Trade Unions (Cosatu), have expressed strong support for the reopening efforts,
recognizing the potential job creation benefits for the Liouville community.