South Africa’s mining industry has undergone transformations, with legislation such as the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) leading to a significant increase in black ownership from 2% to almost 39%. The government’s exploration strategy aims to draw investment for mineral exploration, promote optimal use of South African mineral resources, and enhance economic inclusion through the creation of an exploration fund for junior miners. This initiative, along with support for artisanal and smallscale miners, demonstrates the government’s commitment to remedying historical injustices and accelerating the integration of previously marginalized individuals into the mainstream economy.