The groundwater review was conducted by one of South Africa’s leading water quality research institutes, the Institute for Groundwater Studies (IGS) based at the University of the Free State, which commissioned independent isotope testing by the US Geological Survey’s isotope research laboratory. The research finds that the high nitrate levels in the water tested is a feature of the groundwater in this region and cannot be attributable to mining operations.

IGS researchers used several different scientific techniques to analyse the water samples taken, including sophisticated dual isotope testing of nitrates in the water. "Based on the chemical, isotope and microbial results, the data shows that there is no direct link between nitrate at the mine and those measured at Ga-Molekana’, according to Dr Brent H. Usher and Dr Jennifer A Pretorius, the IGS geohydrologists who conducted the independent study.

Mary-Jane Morifi, Executive Head; Corporate Affairs at Anglo Platinum, said that the company is relieved that the findings confirm that Anglo Platinum’s Mogalakwena mining operation is not responsible for polluting drinking water in Ga-Molekana. "The health and safety of our employees and communities is our main concern and clean drinking water in this water stressed area remains a key priority. When allegations of water contamination first arose in March, Anglo Platinum took swift action to ensure that the schools had access to clean drinking water. The mine has assisted the local municipality in trucking portable water to the schools on a regular basis."

In another finding, the researchers confirmed the presence of high levels of nitrate and sulphate in water samples taken from a community surface water seep located in old Ga-Pila village. The report says this may in part be attributable to mining activities, but cautioned that "evidence from the field investigation does, however suggest that there are several other potential sources of nitrate and microbial contamination in the community water seep." The study concluded that the precise source of nitrates at Ga-Pila cannot be determined with the current data available, and requires further scientific investigation.

Local residents use the seep for ablution, washing animal skins and clothes – not for drinking. The scientists note that in most cases alternative water sources were available.

Anglo Platinum is committed to working with the local municipalities and other stakeholder departments and communities to find a lasting solution to the problems of water in the Limpopo area. The findings have been shared with the Mogalakwena Municipality, the Waterberg District Municipality and Department of Water Affairs.

The pollution of community drinking water was the basis of a complaint made in March by the international pressure group ActionAid to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). The Commission is still investigating the ActionAid claims.

For Further information, please contact:

Mary-Jane Morifi, Executive head Corporate Affairs
Anglo Platinum
+27 11 373 6325

Dr Brent H Usher or Dr Jennifer A. Pretorius
Institute of Ground Water Studies, University of Free State
+27 51 4013481

Notes to editors

1.Sampling methods used by the IGS groundwater survey: All sampling was done by DR B H Usher and Dr J A Pretorius on June 3 and 4, 2008. Representatives from both the South African Police Service and Anglo Platinum were present at all times during the field sampling. Inspector E Korff of the SAPS signed off all the completed field water sampling forms at each site. Samples taken for microbial and inorganic constituents for each site were sealed in individual forensic bags and the isotope samples were all sealed together before leaving the site.
2.Sulphates: Sulphates are non-toxic to animals and humans except at very high levels when it acts as a purgative. In some countries water with sulphate levels higher than 1000 milligrams per litre is used for drinking without ill effects. Sulphates are, however, often an indication of mining influence on water resources.
3.Nitrates: Nitrites are unstable in water and readily oxidizes by bacterial action to nitrates. These two elements can be fatal to infants. The permissible level in drinking water is 10 milligrams per litre. Sewage effluents and agricultural run off are important sources of nitrate.
4.Curricula Vitae of analysis team: Available from writer.
5.The peer review of this research is currently being undertaken in the USA and will be posted on the website when complete.