Spotlights, applause, and a sense of pride filled the recent CoalSafe 2025 Awards, as South Africa’s coal mining sector united to honor the industry’s top achievement in health, safety, and environmental stewardship. The annual awards event showcased the industry’s forward-thinking commitment to “Sustainably Delivering Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” a message that resonates both with operational responsibility and sustainability.
Wonderfontein Mine in Belfast, Mpumalanga, was recognised for its flawless safety record in 2024, with zero lost time injuries and an impressive 12,217 fatality-free production shifts. This milestone, a first for the whole mining industry, “is a testament to the mine’s strong safety culture and operational discipline,” Ndalamo Resources CEO Shammy Luvhengo said.
Wonderfontein’s environmental leadership was also recognised, as it took home the Ambient Air Quality Award for proactive air quality management. The mine’s water treatment plant, which returns clean water to natural streams, was applauded as a benchmark for sustainable water practices in mining.
The North Block Complex (NBC), also in Belfast, was another star of the evening. The operation achieved over 14,600 fatality-free production shifts, which was the second highest among all participating mines. This accomplishment “highlights the dedication of our teams and the robust safety systems that underpin our daily operations,” said Luvhengo.
Meanwhile, the New Clydesdale Colliery (NCC) Ingwenya Crushing Plant celebrated a remarkable safety milestone: zero lost time injuries since 9 December 2018. This feat “speaks volumes about the operational discipline, awareness, and safety leadership maintained consistently over the years,” added Luvhengo.
The CoalSafe Awards, hosted by the South African Colliery Managers’ Association (SACMA), have become a flagship event in the mining calendar, recognising excellence in Safety, Health, Environmental Management, and Community Development. This year’s programme also shone a light on mental health and inclusivity, reflecting the industry’s shift toward holistic worker well-being and the growing impact of Women in Mining.
In a heartfelt message, Luvhengo expressed gratitude to all team members: “Your unwavering dedication to our values is what drives our success – making our operations not only safer and more sustainable but a true example of excellence in mining. Your efforts inspire us all. Let’s keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards.”
As the sector continues its journey towards zero harm, the CoalSafe 2025 Awards serve as a powerful reminder that operational excellence and sustainability are not just goals, but daily realities for South Africa’s leading mines.