Seriti Resources, in partnership with Nafasi Water Technologies, is launching a project to finance, build and operate a water treatment project at the Arnot Closed Colliery near Middelburg, Mpumalanga. This initiative reflects Seriti’s commitment to responsible water management, environmental stewardship, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The Olifants River catchment is one of South Africa’s most important water systems, supporting communities, agriculture, industry, and biodiversity across multiple provinces. By discharging clean, treated water into the environment, this project will help restore downstream water quality, enhance water security for users, and contribute to the ecological health of the catchment, ultimately ensuring more sustainable use of this critical shared resource.
Mining activities at Arnot ceased in 1992, yet the site continues to produce mine-impacted water. Existing onsite measures such as evaporation and pumping are no longer sustainable or cost-effective, and storage capacity has been exhausted.
The new facility will treat the water to the required quality standards and discharge clean, compliant water into Bosmanspruit, part of the Olifants River catchment, in line with Seriti’s Water Use License.
Delivered through a Build-Own-Operate-Maintain (BOOM) model, the project encompasses the complete lifecycle from design and construction through to long-term operation and eventual decommissioning. All waste will be responsibly disposed of at approved off-site facilities.
Mike Teke, group chief executive officer of Seriti Resources
Mike Teke, group chief executive officer of Seriti Resources, says, “At Seriti, we recognise that our responsibility as a mining company extends far beyond the life of our operations. The Arnot water treatment project is a clear demonstration of how we can honour our mine closure obligations while making a meaningful contribution to the environment and communities around us. Clean and secure water systems are vital for South Africa’s future, and through this partnership with Nafasi Water, we are taking tangible steps to protect one of the country’s most critical catchment areas. This is about ensuring that the legacy of Arnot Colliery is not only about powering the nation in the past, but also about safeguarding natural resources for generations to come.”
Suzie Nkambule, chief executive officer of Nafasi Water
Suzie Nkambule, chief executive officer of Nafasi Water, adds, “Through this collaboration, we can leverage our specialist expertise in mine water treatment to deliver a solution that brings both environmental and community benefits. By applying innovative treatment processes and maintaining the highest operational standards, we can ensure that clean, compliant water is returned to the environment, supporting the restoration and protection of this vital catchment area.”
During its operational life, Arnot Colliery played a central role in South Africa’s energy supply, powering homes, industries, and economic growth. Now, in its post-mining phase, it will become an equally important asset for the region by contributing to the improvement of water security and quality for the same communities it once served with energy.
This long-term solution will address mine closure obligations, reduce environmental risk, and help protect critical local water systems within the Olifants River catchment.
