Location, structure and geological significance
The Amandelbult platinum mine is situated in South Africa’s Limpopo province, within the mineral-rich Bushveld Complex — the world’s largest source of platinum group metals (PGMs). This geological formation is composed of multiple layers rich in platinum, palladium, rhodium, and associated base metals. The mine comprises two main underground sections: the Tumela shaft and the Dishaba section, both of which operate within the same ore body but are managed as distinct entities. Together, they form the Amandelbult Complex — a key asset for Anglo American Platinum and a critical contributor to global platinum production.
Ownership and operational capacity
Owned and operated by Anglo American Platinum, one of the world’s largest platinum producers, the Amandelbult Complex is entirely focused on underground mining. It plays a vital role in the company’s portfolio, contributing significantly to the group’s annual platinum production. The operation includes a concentrator plant and related infrastructure, processing ore extracted from both Tumela and Dishaba. The mine supports thousands of jobs in the region and contributes to the broader South African mining economy. As of recent years, Amandelbult produces a substantial portion of Anglo’s 3.8–4.1 million ounces in metal-in-concentrate output, with the combined output of Tumela and Dishaba making up a significant share of the group’s total production.
Recent disruptions and climate-related risks
In early 2025, Amandelbult faced significant operational disruptions due to torrential rainfall in the Limpopo region. Severe rainfall and flooding in the Limpopo region led to significant water ingress at Tumela, temporarily halting some operations across the complex as a precaution. While flooding affected access roads and surface operations, key infrastructure like the Dishaba mine and concentrator plant remained largely intact. Production guidance for the year was revised following the disruptions, with operations outside of Tumela resuming shortly thereafter. This incident underscores the increasing vulnerability of mining operations to climate-related events and highlights the need for robust risk mitigation strategies in high-risk regions.
Amandelbult’s role in global PGM markets
Amandelbult is a cornerstone of Anglo American Platinum’s underground mining strategy, contributing to the stability of global platinum and PGM supply chains. Its production of platinum, palladium, and rhodium supports industries ranging from automotive (catalytic converters) to electronics and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. As open-pit reserves become scarcer, underground operations like Amandelbult gain strategic importance. In comparison to open-pit giants like Mogalakwena, Amandelbult offers a high-grade, lower-surface-footprint alternative, albeit with more complex extraction logistics. The stability of its output is crucial for maintaining supply-demand equilibrium in the global PGM market.
Outlook and future prospects
Despite temporary setbacks, the future outlook for Amandelbult remains stable. Anglo American Platinum reaffirmed its 2025 production guidance, signaling operational resilience. Investments in water management, mine safety, and underground automation are expected to bolster the mine’s sustainability. As regulatory and ESG pressures mount, Amandelbult is also poised to adopt greener practices and more efficient ore recovery techniques. For investors and stakeholders, the mine represents both a production anchor and a long-term strategic asset in an evolving metals landscape.
FAQ
What is mined at Amandelbult?
Amandelbult produces platinum group metals (PGMs), including platinum, palladium, rhodium, and associated base metals such as nickel and copper. The mine primarily focuses on underground mining operations targeting the Merensky and UG2 reefs within the Bushveld Complex.
Where is the biggest platinum mine in the world?
The largest platinum mine is the Mogalakwena mine, also operated by Anglo American Platinum, located in Limpopo, South Africa. It differs from Amandelbult as it is an open-pit operation, whereas Amandelbult is an underground complex.
Who owns Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine?
Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine is a separately owned operation. It was formerly part of Anglo American Platinum’s Union Mine, which was sold to Siyanda Resources. It is located not far from Amandelbult in Limpopo province.
How old is Amandelbult mine?
Mining operations at Amandelbult began in the early 1970s. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major underground platinum mining complex, integrating new technologies and expanding its infrastructure to include the Tumela and Dishaba shafts.
