Global Guide 2026 : South Africa
Ranked Individual
Provided by Werksmans Attorneys
The evolving regulatory landscape in the mining industry (including the Mining Charter, as amended, and the Codes of Good Practice for the Mineral Industry) has led to a growing number of administrative disputes over the granting of prospecting and mining rights. In addition, mining companies are subject to increasingly stringent environmental regulation, particularly around waste management and rehabilitation of the surface of the earth disturbed during prospecting and mining. Werksmans mining & resources lawyers come with extensive experience in structuring mining transactions to meet these legislative and regulatory requirements, including the impact of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Royalty Act.
The team has a well-established international network. Mining clients include North American, European and Australian companies, as well as some of the major South African mining houses and empowerment mining companies.
Specialist services we are known for include: Advising on the MPRDA; Mining Charter and Codes of Good Practice; black economic empowerment legislation and regulation; mergers & acquisitions; environmental law (including waste management); mine health and safety; Joint Venture and Pooling and Sharing agreements; mining and prospecting statutory and regulatory compliance; and processing and off-take agreements.
Provided by Chambers
Werksmans offers a strong mining and natural resources department that is frequently instructed by leading South African mining houses on major M&A deals. The group's work includes a large number of disposal transactions. The firm is also well versed in dispute resolution. The team is well placed to assist with prospecting and mining rights, water use licences and environmental matters.
Provided by Chambers
Werksmans advised Vishnu Chemicals on its USD6.7 million acquisition of the Ruighoek Mine.
Provided by Chambers
The depth of Werksmans' team is reflected in its extensive experience, specialised legal knowledge and demonstrated ability to manage complex legal matters with proficiency and efficiency.
Werksmans provides exceptional depth in both regulatory and commercial legal work, offering a rare combination of technical expertise, strategic insight and executional excellence.
Provided by Chambers
Chris possesses good communication and interpersonal skills, which enable him to explain complex legal matters in clear and easily understandable everyday language.
Chris' exceptional knowledge of the mining industry, extensive experience and comprehensive skill set, coupled with a practical approach to matters, clearly set him apart.
Chris Stevens consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that complex technicalities of mining law and regulations are clearly explained and aligned with our specific business objectives.
Head of Energy & Natural Resources: Mining
Provided by Werksmans Attorneys
Jonathan Stockwell
Des Williams
Athi Jara
Helen Michael
Hendrik Kotze
Janene Meiring
David Gewer
Adam Pyzikowski
Jannie de Villiers
Kathleen Louw
Bulelwa Mabasa
Stephan Lochner
Neil Kirby
Jones Antunes
Justin Truter
Lureshan Naidoo
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