In the rugged terrains of South Africa’s mineral belt, open cast mining has become the backbone of manganese ore production. Unlike underground mining, this method involves removing surface layers to expose the ore beneath — a process that’s faster, more cost-effective, and ideal for shallow deposits.

Take the East Manganese mine, for example: a compact 14-hectare pit that punches well above its weight, producing around 30,000 tons of run-of-mine manganese monthly. The ore is extracted from three distinct layers, blended to achieve a consistent 36.5% manganese grade — perfect for steelmaking, battery tech, and industrial alloys.

What makes open cast mining so efficient here is its dry crushing and screening system, which minimizes water usage while delivering both lumpy and fine-grade products. It’s a model of sustainability and precision, proving that even in high-demand sectors, smart mining can lead the way.

As global demand for manganese rises, especially in clean energy and infrastructure, open cast operations like these are not just digging ore — they’re shaping the future.