Oversight Visit to Alexkor in Alexander Bay: A Quest for Land Rights Restoration

Strategic Insights -

The Select Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Mineral Resources has initiated an oversight visit to Alexkor in Alexander Bay, aimed at addressing outstanding issues surrounding the Richtersveld Cedar Hub Land Claim. This landmark case has significant implications for the Richtersveld community, having regained approximately 195,000 hectares of land, including a share in the Richtersveld National Park and a 49% stake in a diamond-mining joint venture with Alexkor.

Key Takeaways:

  • The oversight visit will focus on addressing outstanding requirements outlined in the deed, including the establishment of the Richtersveld Community Property Association (CPA) to manage community assets, alongside two trusts and various subsidiaries.
  • The National Council of Provinces and the National Assembly committees have previously identified outstanding actions required from government departments and local authorities, including challenges with service delivery in the former mining town of Alexander Bay.
  • Issues to be addressed during the visit include dysfunctionality within the CPA, delays in electricity service connections, operational challenges for agricultural businesses, and unsatisfactory environmental rehabilitation of mined areas.
  • The committee will engage with all relevant stakeholders to establish a timeline for completing outstanding actions and understand the challenges affecting the implementation of the deed settlement.
  • The Richtersveld Cedar Hub Land Claim, one of the largest in South Africa's history, has resulted in significant benefits for the community, including development funding for housing and a vital role in managing community assets.

Statistics:

  • 195,000 hectares of land have been regained by the Richtersveld community through the Richtersveld Cedar Hub Land Claim.
  • 7th parliamentary term: The committee has been approached by various stakeholders to resolve ongoing issues with the mining joint venture and to assist the CPA in securing the final transfer of funds owed by Alexkor.
  • Week-long oversight: The committee will convene meetings with all relevant stakeholders to address outstanding issues during the week-long oversight visit.

Sources:

  • Parliament of South Africa, 22 Sep 2025 (Parliament of South Africa)