Wedoany.com Report-Dec.8, West Wits Mining has officially commissioned the Qala Shallows underground gold mine, located west of Johannesburg, South Africa. The opening marks the country's first new underground gold mine in 15 years and represents the initial production phase of the broader Witwatersrand Basin Project.

First gold pour from the Qala Shallows mine is set for March 2026.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by South Africa's Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe; Australian High Commissioner Tegan Brink; Minerals Council South Africa CEO Mzila Mthenjane; community leaders; project partners; investors and media representatives.

West Wits CEO and Managing Director Jac van Heerden (referred to in the announcement as Rudi Deysel) said: "For years, many believed the Central Rand had reached the end of its mining life, but Qala Shallows shows that with rigorous geological work, clear planning and disciplined execution – and strong cooperation between government and business – new underground gold mines can still be developed in this district.

"The Witwatersrand built Johannesburg and shaped our economy, and it still holds substantial potential for the future."

Site mobilisation began in July 2025. Development has advanced quickly, with first ore was brought to surface in October, and all underground infrastructure required for initial production is now complete. A surface stockpile is being established and is expected to reach approximately 30,000 tonnes ahead of processing. The first gold pour is scheduled for March 2026.

Deysel added: "This project would not have been possible without the support of government, our lenders, our host communities and our industry partners. Together we have brought a new mine to life in one of the world's most historic gold districts, and today Qala Shallows starts a fresh chapter for the Witwatersrand and for South African gold mining."

Qala Shallows is projected to produce at a steady-state rate of around 70,000 ounces per year for 12 years within a total mine life of 17 years. The operation is forecast to contribute more than US$1.15 billion to South Africa's economy and create over 1,000 direct jobs during its first phase.

With Qala Shallows now in production, West Wits transitions from developer to gold producer. The mine forms the foundation of a staged development plan that includes future phases such as Bird Reef Central. The broader Witwatersrand Basin Project contains a mineral resource exceeding five million ounces, supporting the company's long-term target of reaching 200,000 ounces annual production under its Project 200 roadmap.