South Africa's economy was helped by its natural resources.
EXPLANATION:
South Africa today is the second largest economy of Africa. The country is abound in natural resources which contribute to the economy in a great manner.
Mining in South Africa contributes the maximum to the economy. South Africa happens to be the largest "mining and mineral" processing country.
Minerals like manganese, antimony, phosphate rock etc. are mined in South Africa and exported from there. South Africa is the "world's third largest exporter of coal".