The Gakara mine holds some high-grade rare earth elements, some of which are expected to become essential for the manufacturing of batteries, magnets and electric vehicles.
Marmato underground gold mine is expected to have a minimum 12-year productive life, generating over 1.5 million ounces of the precious metal during that time.
Roy Cimatu, who replaced ousted ecologist Regina Lopez in May, has said he would review evidence brought forward by mining companies and communities before deciding whether to keep, modify, or reverse his predecessor's measures.
Mine is expected to generate about 300,000 ounces annually by late 2021/early 2022, increasing total PGM production from Sibanye’s operations in the US by more than 50%.