COMMENT • sharyn @ interactmedia. co. za
Sharyn Macnamara – editor •
TRANSFORMATION – A‘ LOADED’ IMPERATIVE IN MINING
Our dynamic mining industry is evolving daily, and transformation is essential in the global push for sustainability. Transformation is is not just about the adoption of new technology or modifying processes, it involves embracing diversity in gender, ethnicity and age and the inclusion of every facet of the ecosystem in which mining functions, its communities and environment.
Transformation – at the heart of sustainable mining In June, African Mining, incorporating Mining Mirror takes its readers on an excursion to one of South Africa’ s grand old mines – Palabora Copper( Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of the Palabora Mining Company( PMC) and a leading major copper mine. Here PMC’ s operations continue to push the envelope when it comes to transformation, responsible and safe mining practices – sustainably supporting the thriving mining ecosystem in the area.
This surface and underground mining operation’ s legacy and future is intrinsically connected with the eight communities and the habitat they share with the fauna and flora of the area that host them. Neither the communities nor the operations that drive the local economy can function in isolation. With the Kruger National Park on their doorstep, theirs is a ternary relationship built over decades.
This introduction is just the beginning of a journey that will highlight PMC’ s innovation and projects firmly grounded in sustainable mining practice with the refurbishing and modernising of otherwise obsolete technology to improve efficiencies. These are all driven by transformational leadership within the different portfolios at the mine.
Technology – a force for change On a regional level, our Operations Feature speaks to the combining of AI-powered analysis and human expertise and the potential this combination has to transform how mines operate, enabling more precise, confident decisions based on real operational evidence rather than instinct alone. In the face of rising global insecurity, market volatility and a rapidly shifting technology landscape, Africa must act quickly, transform the way it engages with the word and capitalise on its mineral endowments or risk falling behind.
When it comes to this transforming mining landscape, African Mining, incorporating Mining Mirror will make a turn at Securex SA, OSH EXPO and FRIGAIR 2025 where tech is a driving force in transformation to sustainable spaces. Leading companies in the heating, energy, refrigeration, ventilation and air conditioning( HERVAC) industry are a force for change in moving the industry from being energy-intensive to energy-intelligent. Using a combination of new technologies and innovations, mindful building design and renewable energy options, the HERVAC industry is fast becoming an enabler in local sustainable infrastructure.
# TogetherWeEngineer the future With International Women in Engineering Day celebrated on 23 June, this month will also see African Mining, incorporating Mining Mirror celebrating the incredible contributions women engineers are making to our industry online with a view to inspiring more women and young girls to pursue a career in engineering. So, be sure to register to receive our bulletin here https:// www. africanmining. co. za / mining-africa-digital-registration /.
Women are making their mark in the industry. Locally, the WOMANNETJIE trophy was launched recently at COALSAFE 2025. Presenting the Coal Industry Achiever Awards – where mining efforts driving safety and sustainability were honoured – Dolly Skhosana, chair of SAMCA, shared this exciting development for Women In Mining in South Africa. Watch the amazing celebration here: bit. ly / 44MO78F
The launch of the Mineral Resources Development Act Bill could not come at a better time. With the review of the MPRDA, transformation again takes centre stage locally – watch our website daily news for movement on this score: https:// www. africanmining. co. za /#
June 2025 will end off at the London Indaba, chaired by Bernard Swanepoel, who’ s words are apt to conclude:“ Africa has moved from the margins to the mainstream of the global mining conversation. The minerals essential to the world’ s transition, whether it’ s copper, cobalt or PGMs, are found here, and the decisions we make today will shape not just our continent’ s future, but the trajectory of industries and economies around the world.” •
Sharyn Macnamara
Women are making their mark in the industry. www. africanmining. co. za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • June 2025 • 3