South Africa Field Research: Engagement in Mine Closure Context

New field research from South Africa highlights the importance of proactive, trust-based stakeholder engagement during mine closure phases. The study, based on interviews and participatory observation in Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, finds that affected communities often feel excluded from closure planning—even when environmental and social impacts are long-lasting. Researchers advocate for earlier and more inclusive dialogue, noting that closure decisions affect livelihoods, land use, and community identity.