COMMENT •
Sharon Mdaka – writer • sharon @ interactmedia. co. za
NEXT SIX MONTHS CRITICAL FOR AFRICA’ S MINING INDUSTRY
Looking at the first half of the year, the June edition of African Mining, incorporating Mining Mirror arrives at a time when the continent’ s mining sector is urged to confront both its vulnerabilities and opportunities. So far, the continent has seen a boost from the surge in precious metals prices, and greenfield exploration in countries such as Namibia, South Africa and Ghana.
Across the continent, conversations surround energy security, infrastructure, investment and policies, with countries such as Zambia and Nigeria implementing new local processing policies and long-term investment confidence. These discussions within the continent continue to shape how mines are currently operating and what the future holds.
This edition’ s Country in Focus turns to the Democratic Republic of Congo, a jurisdiction that continues to command global attention for its vast mineral potential and strategic role in the energy transition. Yet, alongside its opportunities, the DRC also reflects the broader challenges facing mining regions across the continent: infrastructure development, responsible resource governance and the need to translate mineral wealth into sustainable economic growth.
Closer to home, concerns around the competitiveness of South Africa’ s mining industry remain difficult to ignore. Insights from Minerals Council South Africa paint an uncomfortable but necessary picture of an industry under pressure from declining grades, rising costs and operational constraints – Reinforcing the urgency for innovation, investment and stronger collaboration between industry stakeholders if South Africa is to maintain its position as a globally competitive mining destination.
Advanced technologies continue to dominate the mining industry. In this issue, we explore the role played by technology in the mine water management systems. We also look inside the revival of Liberty Coal’ s dragline. Mining companies are increasingly being challenged to maximise productivity while navigating tightening environmental, financial and operational demands. Similarly, developments at Palabora Mining Company’ s smelter and refinery operations highlight the critical role processing infrastructure continues to play in strengthening downstream mining value chains.
Energy remains another central focus for the industry. Discussions with Mark Evans reflect the growing urgency around energy security, decarbonisation and the search for practical solutions that support both sustainability ambitions and operational continuity. Across the continent, miners are increasingly recognising that energy strategy is now inseparable from business strategy.
We share lessons from Gold Fields as we investigate its safety transformation, by looking at how a fundamental shift in leadership and culture aligns with the company’ s aspiration to ensure that all its employees return home safely.
This edition also looks ahead to the Mine Security Conference taking place on 1 – 2 July 2026, where industry stakeholders will gather to address the ever-present challenges and security risks facing mining operations. As mining environments become more complex and interconnected, safeguarding people, assets and critical infrastructure continues to be a priority that cannot be overlooked.
As always, African Mining, incorporating Mining Mirror, remains committed to highlighting the developments, innovations and conversations shaping the future of mining across the continent. We trust this edition provides valuable insight into the challenges being navigated and the opportunities emerging within one of Africa’ s most important industries. •
Yours in mining,
Sharon Mdaka
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Insights from Minerals Council South Africa paint an uncomfortable but necessary picture of an industry under pressure from declining grades, rising costs and operational constraints. www. africanmining. co. za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • June 2026 • 3