Strategies to combat illegal mining activities in Johannesburg, South Africa

Author : Dee Khosa

Abstract :Illegal mining continues to present a significant challenge in Johannesburg, South Africa, with wide-ranging socio-economic, environmental, and security implications. This study examines effective strategies to address illegal mining through a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with 26 purposively selected participants, including law enforcement officers and regulatory stakeholders. The findings indicate that current efforts are constrained by fragmented coordination, limited resources, and weak legislative enforcement. Participants highlighted the need for a holistic, multi-stakeholder response that integrates law enforcement, community participation, and policy reform. Key strategies identified include strengthening operational capacity within law enforcement agencies, enhancing public awareness and community engagement, and improving transparency in the mining licensing process to reduce opportunities for illegal activity. The study further underscores the importance of formal inter-agency collaboration and intelligence sharing to dismantle organized illegal mining networks, alongside legislative and policy reforms to close regulatory loopholes and ensure consistent enforcement across jurisdictions. The research recommends establishing a coordinated governance framework that aligns the efforts of government departments, law enforcement, and local communities. Additionally, increased investment in training, technology, and operational resources is crucial to strengthen institutional capacity and effectiveness. Implementing these integrated strategies can help address the socio-economic drivers of illegal mining while promoting safety, stability, and sustainable development in Johannesburg.

Keywords :Illegal Mining, Law Enforcement, Community Engagement, Stakeholder Collaboration, Policy Reform.

Conference Name :International Conference on Public Policy and Public Administration (ICPPPA-25)

Conference Place Port Louis,Mauritius

Conference Date 10th Dec 2025