Foreigners Pay R300 to Loot Swazi Gold

The historic Pigg’s Peak Gold Mine, established 140 years ago in Swaziland, has been closed for over two decades. Today, however, it has been brought back to life, not by legitimate operations, but by illegal miners, known as zama zamas. These miners, hailing from Lesotho, South Africa, Botswana, and Eswatini, have taken advantage of the easy access to the mine, working side by side in their quest for gold.

Located at Old Pigg’s Peak, about five kilometers from the current town of Pigg’s Peak, the mine was once bustling with activity in the late 1800s. It was here that William Pigg founded the town, which later moved to its present location. After nearly a century of operation, the mine was closed in the early 1970s. Despite its current desolation, groups of zama zamas, usually 20 at a time, venture underground, risking their lives for gold. These miners spend about three days underground without proper mining gear, lighting, or oxygen, making their endeavor perilous.

One of the illegal miners, referred to herein as Godo, shared his experiences of mining over the past five years. Godo, a liSwati, revealed that entering the mine is surprisingly effortless. He claimed that miners pay between E200 to E300 to gain access (the equivalent of 200 to 300 Rand), allegedly bribing soldiers guarding the facility, although this claim remains unverified. Godo disclosed that he previously worked for a forestry company but turned to illegal mining to supplement his income. Despite the risks, he reported earning significant amounts of money, with his team of four making E25,000 in just three days.

Godo mentioned that the revival of illegal mining has brought economic activity back to Pigg’s Peak, with shops bustling as zama zamas spend their earnings. Although entering the tunnels is frightening, the high rewards attract many to take the risk. Miners prepare by bringing meals for three days, relying on tinned foods like Morvite cereal, which requires only water or milk. Godo also noted that water is available underground, used both for cleaning gold and for drinking.

Last Saturday, it was reported that illegal miners are now also searching for gold along the Mangwaneni River banks at Malantalahle, a township under Pigg’s Peak. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has expressed concerns over the environmental, safety, and security implications of these activities. Communications Officer Sikelela Khoza emphasized the ministry's commitment to curbing illegal mining, which adversely affects the country's development. Awareness campaigns are being conducted through various platforms, including national radio and social media, to educate the public on the dangers of illegal mining and the importance of following proper procedures.

Khoza also mentioned that surveillance in areas prone to illegal mining has been increased with the assistance of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF). The public is urged to report any illegal mining activities to the police. When asked about soldiers allegedly charging illegal miners for access, UEDF Public Affairs Officer Lieutenant Tengetile Khumalo did not comment. Police Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati stated that the police’s role is to arrest offenders, but the broader issue requires government intervention.

The situation at Pigg’s Peak Gold Mine reflects the broader challenges and complexities surrounding illegal mining in Eswatini. While the revival of the mine through illicit activities highlights economic desperation, it also underscores the need for stronger regulatory measures and community education to address these issues effectively.