Director’s Cut: Unearthing SA’s rare earth power
07 Nov
Politics

Director’s Cut: Unearthing SA’s rare earth power

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Alec Hogg speaks with Graham Soden, CEO of Steenkampskraal Mine, about the growing geopolitical significance of rare earth elements and South Africa’s potential role in this global race. Soden reflects on his journey in mining, the promise of the Steenkampskraal project, and the rising demand for thorium and radium. He also addresses misconceptions about radioactivity, the challenges of attracting investment, and the importance of strategic partnerships in navigating a politically sensitive environment.Sign up for your early morning brew of the BizNews Insider to keep you up to speed with the content that matters. The newsletter will land in your inbox at 5:30am weekdays. Registerhere. Support South Africa’s bastion of independent journalism, offering balanced insights on investments, business, and the political economy, by joining BizNews Premium. Registerhere. If you preferWhatsAppfor updates, sign up to the BizNews channelhere.
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Unearthing History: 4,000-Year-Old Oasis Town Discovered in Saudi Arabia
04 Nov
Lifestyle

Unearthing History: 4,000-Year-Old Oasis Town Discovered in Saudi Arabia

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Lifestyle Archaeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient town hidden underneath the walled oasis of Khaybar in Saudia ArabiaArchaeologists have unveiled the remnants of a 4,000-year-old fortified town, Al-Natah, nestled within the Khaybar oasis in northwest Saudi Arabia. This discovery provides valuable insights into ancient life, revealing a shift from nomadic lifestyles to early forms of urban settlement in the region.Aerial view of the walled settlement.A Glimpse into the PastAround 2400 BC, during the early Bronze Age, the town had about 500 residents before its mysterious abandonment around 1400 BC. Observations from the air exposed pathways and housing foundations, revealing a walled layout spanning 2.6 hectares. The layout contained approximately 50 houses, suggesting a structured community within the town’s fortified boundaries. Researchers found that Al-Natah’s compact structure marked a transition between nomadic and...
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