By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider 

At this year’s African Mining Indaba which is currently held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) presents an opportunity for South Africa to position themselves as a global competitor, as well as advancing technology in Mining, as well position themselves in a critical role within the energy transition.

The energy transition highlights crucial minerals, which places South Africa to be at a huge advantage to meet the global growing demand. Africa’s rich mineral supply is vital towards the global shift to cleaner energy, a shift which South Africa is happy to facilitate and work towards being a reliable mineral supplier. 

Technological advancements will also be crucial as well as sustainability and regional collaboration. South Africa has already started to embrace digital mining, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation in order to enhance efficiency, safety and to be environmentally ethical.

Championing green minerals is at the centre of South Africa’s agenda to ensure that ethical supply chains are met with international ESG standards.

“South Africa must become globally competitive by adding value to our minerals through downstream beneficiation…this is where the real benefit lies for business, for labour, and for our communities.” said Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources for South Africa ,Gwede Mantashe.

“The goal is to achieve a stable energy mix that protects livelihoods and facilitates new industries like electrical vehicles and battery technology…we will transition at a pace and scale that works for our country,” said Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Samantha Graham-Mare.