MINING INDABA •
Sustainable living is holistic and requires that we consider all actions in the context of greater systems , including the mineral value chain .
The consequences of ecological neglect can lead to impoverished regions , crop failure , disproportionate effects on poor communities , regulatory crackdowns , tarnished brand image and community pushbacks . Moreover , understanding the sociopolitical landscapes of mining regions is pivotal . Issues of land rights , indigenous community engagements and local governance play a significant role in the viability and longevity of mining operations .
The impetus for technological embrace Africa stands at the cusp of technological innovation in mining due to our unique landscape , fortuitous mineral endowment , incredible natural resources of a non-mineral nature , and over three centuries of progressive mining experience . Digital technologies promise improved production efficiency , safety and democratisation , but their true potential lies in skillsets , mindset and culturally transformative aspects . We can create a mining workforce reflective of Africa ' s rich tapestry by creating , adopting and embracing Afrocentric technology and diversity .
Ramifications for Africa ' s labour-intensive mining industry African mining has traditionally been a labour-intensive sector . It is an industry where manual labour has , for centuries , toiled under the sun and within the depths of the earth to extract valuable minerals . On the surface , being labour-intensive seems beneficial ; it translates to job creation , which is paramount for a continent grappling with unemployment . However , the current global technological trajectory places this labour-intensive model at a crossroads .
Technological advancement ’ s double-edged sword As Africa prepares for a technological revolution in mining , the implications are profound . Digital technologies , while promising operational efficiency and improved safety , inadvertently endanger traditional job structures . While beneficial , advances such as automation , AI-driven machinery and digital monitoring systems reduce the need for human intervention in many mining processes . This evolution can be viewed as a threat , especially in an industry where many workers may lack the skills to operate these new machines or navigate digitalised operational environments . It ' s not merely about operating a new machine ; it ' s about understanding the digital interface , making real-time decisions based on data , and troubleshooting in an environment that ' s a far cry from the traditional mining setup .
Rethinking the business model : skills , inclusion and retention Rather than seeing technological advancement as an inevitable precursor to retrenchment , mining companies should pivot towards a model where technological embrace coexists with human capital enhancement .
Continuous skills development : For the existing workforce , comprehensive training programmes should be instituted – which not only train workers in operating modern machinery but also inculcate a digital-first mindset . From understanding basic software interfaces to advanced machinery troubleshooting , the aim should be to transform the traditional miner into a tech-savvy operative .
Inclusivity and diversity : Technology has the potential to level the playing field , but in Africa tech must be tailored to African contexts . The mining sector should seize this opportunity to promote a more inclusive workforce . By introducing digital tools and training , segments of the population Wits Mining Institute director , previously sidelined in mining due to Professor Glen Nwaila . physical demands — such as women or the differently-abled — can be integrated more effectively .
1
Bridging generational knowledge gaps : The synergy between Generation Z and experienced miners is invaluable . While the younger generation brings in fresh perspectives , technological prowess and innovative thinking , the veterans offer wisdom , experience and nuanced understanding . Formal mentorship programmes , collaborative projects and cross-generational workshops can harness this synergy , ensuring that the digital transition does not come at the expense of hard-earned traditional knowledge – and that modernity is not displacing knowledge for its own sake .
Incentivising skill acquisition : Instead of the traditional payfor-labour model , companies should explore a model where compensation is linked to skills and adaptability . This approach not only incentivises continuous learning but also ensures that the workforce is always at the forefront of technological trends . This promotes innovation , life-long learning and business agility . These traits are increasingly more important in a rapidly changing world .
Cybersecurity – act beyond proactivity The proliferation of digital tools and data in mining amplifies the sector ' s cyber vulnerability . This requires a dual-pronged approach . Firstly , a proactive cybersecurity framework must be established , emphasising regular audits , threat detection and preventive measures . Secondly , reactive strategies must be robust , ensuring minimal downtime and data loss during breaches . Regular training modules can instil a persistent culture of digital vigilance .
The age-old silos between Information Technology ( IT ) and Operational Technology ( OT ) must be dismantled . IT , which traditionally governs data and computational aspects , needs
1 . Companies should explore a model where compensation is linked to skills and adaptability .
www . africanmining . co . za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • January 2024 • 37