The red sands of the Kalahari have been delved into for the extraction of iron ore, leaving jagged gaps in the earth’s surface and creating one of the five largest single pit open-cast iron-ore mines in the world, dwarfing man and tough machines with its enourmous gaping pits.
Everything about Kathu’s Sishen Iron Ore Mine is big. It produces 28.8 million tons of high quality ore annually, employs 3 200 people, and the open pit will eventually extend for 12 kilometres.
Manganese mines are to be found at the towns of Hotazel and Black Rock, names that reflect the rugged hot conditions of the surrounds.
It is well worth making an appointment to tour one or more of the Northern Cape’s five mammoth, single pit open-cast undertakings.
