Leandra, Mpumalanga, May 2024 – The Council for Geoscience (CGS) and Mzansi Exploration, Drilling and Mining celebrated a significant achievement with the completion of an 1800m drill for the Carbon Capture and Utilisation Storage (CCUS) pilot project. This milestone, essential for the development of the CCUS initiative, was celebrated at the CCUS Piloting Site in Leandra, Mpumalanga.
The event acknowledged the tireless efforts of those who contributed to the project’s advancement towards its goal of capturing and storing CO2 underground. The programme commenced with a safety briefing followed by the South African National Anthem.
Cllr Nhlakanipho Zuma, Executive Mayor of Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, delivered a welcoming address, expressing gratitude for the opportunity brought to Leandra by the CGS. Mr. Mosa Mabuza, CEO of CGS, highlighted the strategic choice of Leandra due to its proximity to major CO2 emission sources. He also praised Dr. Taufeeq Dhansay for recommending the use of basalt rocks for potential CO2 storage and acknowledged the efforts of Mzansi Exploration, Drilling and Mining in completing the drilling despite various challenges.
Mr. Sibusiso Matiwane, acting COO of Mzansi Exploration, Drilling and Mining, expressed delight at achieving the drilling milestone and thanked all stakeholders involved. He detailed the challenges faced, including water loss, technical issues, and weather conditions.
Mr. Ngqondi Nxokwana, CCUS project manager, and Mr. Thulani Maupa, site manager, reviewed the project’s journey from site selection to the completion of the drilling phase. They proudly announced zero incidents and a 5% reduction in project disruptions. Recognition certificates were then presented to the drilling team by Dr. Thuli Khumalo, Executive Manager in the office of the CEO.
CGS Board Chairperson, Mr. Kelepile Dintwe, concluded the event by thanking attendees and emphasizing the project’s importance for South Africa and the African continent. The celebration ended with music, festivities, and photo opportunities, marking a high point in the journey towards a sustainable future.
For more details, see the original story by Matlhatsi Maibelo and Philasande Buthelezi here.
