Rituals and Residues: Mapping Mining Landscapes and Spatial Practices Along South Africa’s Klip River

Abstract

Gold mining along South Africa’s Witwatersrand mining belt began in the late nineteenth century, significantly impacting water ecosystems, especially the Klip River, the largest tributary of the Vaal River. Despite challenges of acid mine drainage and compromised water quality, century-old religious practices like river baptisms persist, demonstrating cultural resilience as communities maintain their traditions amidst environmental adversity. This case study aims to illustrate how cultural resilience manifests through ritual practices and to propose a framework for addressing the socio-environmental complexities of post-mining landscapes.