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Mining-focused manufacturers see innovation as key to survival and future growth

Published: 17 May 24

Amid the challenges of loadshedding, logistical constraints and volatile commodity prices, South Africa’s mining-focused manufacturers and equipment suppliers view ongoing innovation, including embracing digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI), as increasingly central to their survival and future growth. Mining Equipment Manufacturers of South Africa (Memsa) CEO Lehlohonolo Molloyi describes local manufacturers in the sector as “resilient” and responsive to the needs of the sector, highlighting in particular how innovation has played a central role in improving the domestic mining sector’s once-dismal safety record.

COUNTRY BOOST The aim of this new Zambia Country Strategy Paper is to support Zambia’s vision of speeding up its socioeconomic transformation to improve livelihoods

AfDB approves strategy paper

Published: 17 May 24

Earlier last month, the board of directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group approved the Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Zambia for 2024-2029, which sets out two priority intervention areas, including boosting the development of the private sector through investments in infrastructure and developing the country’s agricultural value chain. “The aim of this new CSP is to support Zambia’s vision of speeding up its socioeconomic transformation to improve livelihoods,” says AfDB Zambia country office head Raubil Durowoju.

The above image depicts Ndalamo Resources FD Mpho Nkhumeleni

Potential for growth for midtier miners

Published: 17 May 24

Following the recent 2024 State of the Nation Address (Sona) and Budget Speech coal producer Ndalamo Resources believes that there is the potential for growth and resilience among midtier mining companies. “These speeches underscored key points directly affecting our sector. Firstly, the government's pledge to address the energy crisis, notably loadshedding, is paramount for mining,” explains Ndalamo Resources FD Mpho Nkhumeleni.

The above image depicts a Schurco Slurry pump

Tech expertise shortage in junior mining

Published: 17 May 24

There is a shortage of expertise in the specialised domain of junior mining – a situation that is compounded by South Africa’s so-called brain drain, as skilled professionals seek jobs elsewhere, says pump and parts manufacturer Schurco Slurry. Consequently, junior miners have limited access to advanced technical knowledge because of the high demand and cost of expertise, says Schurco Slurry processing and technical specialist Donovan (F.) Higginson.

The above image depicts Resources 4 Africa CEO Paula Munsie

Indaba aims to unlock junior mining potential

Published: 17 May 24

Mineral resources, energy and mining conference specialists Resources 4 Africa (R4A) envision junior miners playing a crucial role in meeting the rising demand for critical minerals and metals, in an African context. According to R4A CEO Paula Munsie, through the upcoming Junior Indaba, which will be held on May 21 and 22, the company promotes exploration, innovation and responsible mining practices among junior miners, in addition to related initiatives.

Horizonte goes into administration amid funding shortfall for Brazil nickel project

Published: 16 May 24

Dual-listed Horizonte Minerals has appointed Chad Griffin and Geoff Rowley as administrators, following its inability to secure full financing for the Araguaia nickel project, in Brazil. Despite negotiations with secured creditors and both existing and potential investors to explore alternative restructuring options, the board had concluded that administration was necessary to safeguard the company’s value for creditors and stakeholders.

Jupiter plans to replicate sustainability approach of Tshipi at other manganese mines

Published: 16 May 24

ASX-listed Jupiter Mines continues to advance environment, social and governance (ESG) initiatives at its 49.9%-owned Tshipi manganese mine, in South Africa, alongside its partner Ntsimbintle Mining. Jupiter CEO and MD Brad Rogers says ESG for the company is about real sustainability, genuine actions and continuing in a credible way the great work that is already occurring at the Tshipi mine.

Shirley Hayes appointed executive chairperson of Copper 360

Published: 16 May 24

JSE-listed Copper 360 has appointed Shirley Hayes executive chairperson. Until now, she had served as nonexecutive chairperson. The copper producer says the change to her position comes as the commissioning of two plants at Copper 360's mining operations will demand significant focus from the incumbent executive team.

Fraser Institute survey shows marked declines in African countries’ investment attractiveness

Published: 16 May 24

The latest Fraser Institute Survey of Mining Companies has found that various African countries, including Niger, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Senegal, have ranked among the lowest for investment attractiveness for mining exploration. Africa is unfortunately ranked as the region with the most jurisdictions towards the bottom of the overall Investment Attractiveness Index.

An image of Afrimat CEO Andries van Heerden

Afrimat delivers strong full-year results, continuing growth

Published: 16 May 24

During its financial year to February 29, midtier mining and materials company Afrimat invested considerably in projects that are expected to yield fruitful returns and further strengthen diversity and competitive advantage, group CEO Andries van Heerden said. One such project was the Nkomati anthracite mine, which he said delivered a healthy return.