OVERVIEW

About the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR)

Following the May 2024 national elections and the subsequent reorganisation of government, the President proclaimed the separation of mineral and petroleum resources from energy and electricity functions. In terms of Proclamation No. 179 of 2024, published on 27 August 2024, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) was established, assuming responsibility for mining, minerals, and petroleum previously housed under the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.

The establishment of the DMPR creates an opportunity to strengthen regulation, streamline governance, and foster a stable, investment-friendly environment that supports the sustainable growth and transformation of South Africa’s mining and petroleum sectors. This approach aligns with national development priorities, including the National Development Plan (Vision 2030), the Medium-Term Development Plan, and government’s re-industrialisation agenda.

Our Mandate

The DMPR derives its mandate from Section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and is responsible for the regulation, development, and transformation of the mining, mineral, and petroleum sectors. The Department promotes responsible resource development, investment confidence, compliance with legislation, and equitable access to benefits.

2. Legislative and Policy Mandate

The following legislation regulates the mineral and petroleum sectors and reflects the legislative measures instituted by the DMPR to execute its obligations:

  • The Petroleum Products Act, 1977 (Act No. 120 of 1977): Regulates manufacturing, wholesaling and retailing of petroleum products.
  • The Central Energy Fund Act (Act No. 38 of 1977): Provides for the management of the Central Energy Fund and fuel levies.
  • The Petroleum Pipelines Act, 2003 (Act No. 60 of 2003): Establishes a regulatory framework for petroleum pipelines.
  • The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002): Provides for access to, and sustainable development of, mineral and petroleum resources.
  • The Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2024 (Act 23 of 2024): Regulates the upstream petroleum sector and promotes investment and inclusivity.
  • The Diamonds Act, 1986 (Act No. 56 of 1986): Promotes beneficiation and participation in the diamond value chain.
  • The Precious Metals Act, 2005 (Act No. 37 of 2005): Regulates acquisition, refining, and disposal of precious metals.

Policy Mandate

The DMPR’s work aligns with national frameworks such as:

  • NDP Vision 2030: South Africa’s long-term strategy for inclusive growth and transformation.
  • Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP): Operational framework driving economic transformation and industrialisation.
  • District Development Model (DDM): Promotes integrated planning, service delivery, and economic growth across all levels of government.

Institutional Policies and Strategies (2025–2030)

1. Drive Inclusive Growth

Invest in skills development, exploration, and SME support to expand job creation and investment.

2. Reduce Poverty

Lower cost of living through inclusive economic strategy, targeted support, and fair regulation.

3. Build a Capable, Ethical State

Enhance accountability, fight corruption, and strengthen public–private partnerships.

Vision, Mission and Values

Vision:

A leader in transforming South Africa through sustainable economic growth in the minerals and petroleum sectors.

Mission:

To regulate, transform, and promote the minerals and petroleum sectors in support of inclusive growth, job creation, and shared prosperity.

Values:

Batho Pele • Ethics and Honesty • Accountability • Professionalism • Ubuntu