AmaranthCX has shared the maps with
DM168. This follows its comprehensive mapping of South Africa’s coal operations, which among other things showed companies with apparent mining rights adjacent to protected areas.
The chrome mapping project also raises ecological and social red flags. In one area in Limpopo, chrome mining has taken place in rural residential areas next to homes. The scale is large and significant and heavy equipment was clearly used, yet the whole operation appears to be unregulated. How can mining take place right next to someone’s house?
Pointedly, the mapping project has revealed the presence of at least 20 spiral plants that are not located on any legitimate mining operation. Chrome is processed in such plants and this raises the question of where such ore is being sourced. Because according to the chrome industry, a considerable amount is being exported illegally from the country.