Exxaro Grootegeluk

The Grootegeluk Coal Mine, a flagship operation of Exxaro Resources, is one of the largest open-pit coal mines in the southern hemisphere. Located in the Waterberg Coalfield, Limpopo province, it plays a vital role in South Africa’s energy and industrial sectors. This article delves into the mine’s history, operations, products, and impact on local and international markets, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in South Africa’s coal mining industry.

Where Is Grootegeluk Coal Mine?

The Grootegeluk Coal Mine is situated 25 km west of Lephalale in Limpopo, South Africa. This prime location within the Waterberg Coalfield provides access to substantial coal reserves, which are pivotal to South Africa’s power generation and metallurgical industries. The mine is strategically connected to major infrastructure, including roads, power supply, and water pipelines sourced from Mokolo Dam.

Key Facts About Grootegeluk Coal Mine

  • Established: The mine began operations in 1980 under the ownership of Iscor (later Kumba) before becoming a part of Exxaro Resources.
  • Employees: Grootegeluk employs approximately 3,200 people, making it a significant contributor to the local economy.
  • Coal Production: Produces 26 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of final coal products, including:
    • 22Mtpa Power Station Coal for Eskom’s Matimba and Medupi power stations.
    • 2.5Mtpa Semi-Soft Coking Coal, largely supplied to Mittal SA.
    • 1Mtpa Export Coal, shipped via the Richards Bay Coal Terminal.
  • Mining Method: Open-pit mining using advanced truck-and-shovel operations.

Coal Reserves and Resources

Grootegeluk boasts some of the most extensive coal reserves in South Africa:

  • Measured Coal Resource: 4,719 million tonnes (Mt).
  • Minable Reserve: 3,261 Mt.
  • Proven Reserves: 1,730 Mt.

The coal deposits are derived from two main formations:

  • Volksrust Formation: A thick interbedded seam with mudstone, shale, and bright coal layers.
  • Vryheid Formation: Comprising dull coal seams and interbedded carbonaceous shale.

The mine’s reserves are estimated to last well beyond the current mining rights’ expiry, ensuring long-term stability and production.

Beneficiation and Product Range

The Grootegeluk beneficiation complex includes eight processing plants capable of producing various coal products:

  1. Power Station Coal: 35% ash thermal coal delivered to Eskom.
  2. Metallurgical Coal: High-quality coal with 15% ash and 11.25% ash grades.
  3. Semi-Soft Coking Coal: 10.3% ash product used in steelmaking.
  4. Steam Coal: 12.5% ash product for domestic and export markets.

Market and Economic Impact

Domestic Market

Grootegeluk is integral to South Africa’s energy grid, supplying coal directly to Matimba and Medupi power stations via a 7 km conveyor belt system. The mine also supplies metallurgical coal to local industries under short- and long-term contracts.

Export Market

Approximately 1Mtpa of semi-soft coking and thermal coal is exported through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, contributing to South Africa’s export revenue.

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives

Exxaro has shown a strong commitment to sustainable practices, as evident from the establishment of Cennergi, its renewable energy subsidiary. Grootegeluk’s mining operations incorporate advanced techniques like in-pit crushing and conveying to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, water recycling and backfilling of mined-out voids form part of the mine’s eco-friendly initiatives.

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Infrastructure and Accessibility

  • Transport: The mine is accessible via Nelson Mandela Drive, linked to the R510 road.
  • Power Supply: Two 132kV lines supply power to the mine.
  • Water Supply: Water is sourced from the Mokolo Dam through a robust pipeline network.

 

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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