South Africa Opens First New Underground Gold Mine in 15 Years with West Wits' Qala Shallows Project

The opening of the Qala Shallows Underground Mine represents a significant turning point for South Africa’s mining landscape, introducing the country’s first new underground gold operation in 15 years. This development by West Wits Mining signals renewed investor confidence in the Witwatersrand Basin, a region historically renowned for its prolific gold output. The project’s launch also reflects a broader commitment to modern, responsible mining practices that integrate economic growth with social impact.

Since development began in July 2025, progress on Qala Shallows has advanced rapidly, culminating in the delivery of first ore in October. This momentum is expected to continue as the surface ore stockpile grows toward an estimated 30,000 tonnes ahead of the first gold pour projected for March 2026. The mine is set to operate for 17 years, with a stable production profile of roughly 70,000 ounces annually for 12 of those years. Such sustainability in output positions Qala Shallows as a key long term contributor to both West Wits Mining’s portfolio and the national economy.

Economic modelling suggests that the project will generate more than US$1.15 billion in value for South Africa over its life, demonstrating the mine’s importance as a strategic asset. Beyond revenue, its Phase 1 operations have already created more than 1,000 direct jobs, while simultaneously driving local procurement initiatives, supporting small enterprise development and fostering partnerships with host communities. These elements form the foundation of a socially inclusive mining model that aligns with modern expectations of environmental stewardship and shared value creation.

Qala Shallows also acts as the foundational stage of the larger Witwatersrand Basin Project, which boasts a resource exceeding 5 million ounces. As West Wits executes this phased approach, the company aims to scale production significantly, supported by its broader growth strategy that includes Project 200, an initiative that targets annual output of 200,000 ounces. This structured expansion underscores a long term vision designed to elevate the company’s operational capacity while contributing meaningfully to regional economic revitalisation.

Overall, the commissioning of the Qala Shallows mine is poised to influence the mining sector by reinforcing South Africa’s relevance in the global gold market and stimulating local economic activity. The influx of investment, employment opportunities and community partnerships generated through this project is likely to strengthen the national mining value chain and enhance long term resilience within the sector.

Mini Glossary

• Witwatersrand Basin: A major geological formation in South Africa known for some of the world’s richest gold deposits.
• Ore: Naturally occurring rock that contains valuable minerals that can be extracted and processed.
• Gold pour: The stage in gold production where processed ore yields refined gold.
• Resource: An estimate of the amount of mineral content in a deposit that has reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction.
• Local procurement: The practice of sourcing goods and services from local businesses to support regional economic development.

Editor: Vural Burç ÇAKIR