Sinkholes, scarred land and scapegoats: the scourge of illegal gold mining in Johannesburg

Illegal gold mining has become a persistent problem in South Africa’s townships, particularly around Johannesburg, where abandoned mine shafts are being exploited once again. Cora Bailey, who has been treating injured animals in the Roodepoort area since 1991, has witnessed a sharp rise in illegal mining activity as gold prices soar. In late September, dozens of zama zamas—local slang for illegal miners—were seen digging across a dirt road from her charity, Claw (Community Led Animal Welfare).

The practice is not new, but the scale and frequency of recent activity have alarmed local residents and authorities. Zama zamas often work in dangerous conditions, risking collapse or poisoning from toxic gases. The mining also leaves behind scars on the landscape, including sinkholes that threaten homes and infrastructure.

The root causes of illegal mining are deeply tied to economic desperation. Many South Africans, particularly in rural and urban poor areas, see no viable alternative to extracting gold from abandoned shafts. The high value of gold makes the risk worthwhile for those with little else to lose.

Despite police crackdowns, enforcement remains inconsistent. Officials often lack resources or face political pressure that limits their ability to act decisively. Community leaders say the government’s response has been inadequate and largely reactive rather than proactive.

Environmental consequences are also severe. Soil contamination from mining chemicals and the destabilization of land have led to long-term ecological damage. Local wildlife is increasingly affected, with animals falling into uncovered shafts or ingesting toxic substances.

Bailey's charity has become a focal point for addressing both animal welfare and community safety issues caused by illegal mining. Her team regularly responds to incidents involving injured animals, many of which are victims of the hazardous conditions created by miners.

The situation highlights broader challenges in South Africa’s economy and governance. While the government has pledged to address illegal mining, progress remains slow. Advocates argue that sustainable economic alternatives must be developed to reduce reliance on dangerous, unregulated activities.

Local residents continue to call for stronger action from authorities. For now, the cycle of illegal mining persists, leaving communities vulnerable and the environment degraded. Without comprehensive intervention, the problem is expected to worsen as gold prices remain high.

The lack of effective policy responses has led to growing frustration among local leaders and residents. As illegal mining spreads, so do the risks to human and environmental health. The question remains whether authorities will act before more lives are lost and more land is destroyed.

Bailey and her team continue their work, but they warn that without broader systemic change, the situation may spiral out of control. The fight against illegal mining is not just about gold—it’s about community safety, environmental protection, and economic justice.