The hidden cost of manganese
How a key mineral for the energy transition is destroying ecosystems and communities in South Africa's Northern Cape. Stephan Hofstatter, Marcello Rossi & Paul Tullis investigate ...
28 July, 2026
ma-feature2
Titanium, conflict and consent
Andiswa Matikinca investigates a case of history repeating itself as another rural Eastern Cape community stands united in resistance against a proposed heavy-minerals mine...
01 July, 2026
Eswatini’s coal comeback: From green promises to black fuel
The approval of a new thermal coal power project derails the kingdom’s green transition efforts, and marginalises local residents, reports Phathizwe Zulu...
29 January, 2026
Sand baroness’ unfettered mining highlights crisis on the banks of the Limpopo River
Judge slams authorities for not stopping illegal sand mining, but Limpopo businesswoman insists she has the right to mine. Chris Gilili investigates...
19 September, 2025
On the trail of lithium smugglers in Southern Africa
International data shows a recent boom in lithium exports from Southern Africa to Chinese markets. Where’s it coming from, and how does it get there? #PowerTracker investigates...
07 April, 2025
Stuck between lithium rocks and a hard place
Zimbabwean communities living around lithium mines have to put up with noise pollution, gas emissions, dust, flying-rock hazards and ground vibrations. Oscar Nkala investigates...
20 September, 2024
Zimbabwe’s lithium liability
Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a global leader in mining and processing lithium. Tatenda Chitagu investigates the cost of these ambitious plans...
17 May, 2024
Copper mine threatens Zambezi national park
Go-ahead for controversial open-pit copper mine in Lower Zambezi National Park has become a political hot potato in the run-up to Zambian elections. Oscar Nkala investigates...
23 June, 2021
Powering up investigative environmental journalism
What we do: Peer review by NiemanLab and the Global Investigative Journalism Network of Oxpeckers tools and investigations...
03 August, 2020
Cleaning up the mining mess
With about 6,000 abandoned mines across South Africa, regulators are searching for answers to irresponsible mine closure. Mark Olalde reports...
11 July, 2018