Loss of profits for mining companies means many jobs are being cut

Mine worker Lazarus Khoza says he doesn't want to think about the future. He has worked at Lonmin Platinum Mine in South Africa's northwest province for eight years, but a dramatic decline in commodity prices and loss of profits for mining companies means jobs are being cut.

Lazarus Khoza comments the situation:

It's estimated that fifty two thousand jobs are under threat in Africa's most industrialized economy. Many say it's an industry in turmoil with frequent strike action over wages safety issues and escalating electricity in labor costs efforts to cut expenses unavoidable.

Already one in four South Africans is unemployed. Labor unions allied to the governing African National Congress play a significant role in the mining industry. They say they're determined to save as many jobs as possible.

The mining and related industries in South Africa employ one million people, if the largest contributor by value to the government's policy of black economic empowerment. Find mining jobs on Jobin.co.za.