The South African government has given an update on the number of mining applications it has received.

Chief director of mineral regulation Futhi Zikalala said the government's minerals and energy department has converted 148 old order licences since the country introduced its Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act in May 2004.

The South African authorities have been putting increasing pressure on mining companies to convert their mining rights into the new rights.

So far, Aquarius Platinum and Lonmin have converted to the new mining rights in the platinum mining sector, with more expected to follow in the near future.

South Africa's minerals and energy minister, Buyelwa Sonjica, said the department is eager to address criticisms that the act has been delaying the processing of applications.

Ms Sonjica added that the department is keen to find out if the act is achieving its objectives, reports Business Day.

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