Bullion World | Volume 4 | Issue 3 | March 2024
Mining Indaba
2024 highlights
*This information is compiled from the Mining Indaba website.*
significance of Environmental, Social, and Governance
Introduction:
(ESG) performance in the global supply chain debate.
Mining Indaba 2024 commenced with
great anticipation, marked by the grand
1. Accessing Critical Minerals: Critical minerals are
celebration of its 30th anniversary
essential raw materials used in various industries,
in a highly anticipated inaugural
including electronics and automotive manufacturing.
ceremony. This milestone event
These minerals are often sourced from specific
brought together industry leaders,
regions around the world, and ensuring access to
experts, and stakeholders for an
them is crucial for uninterrupted production. In this
engaging and entertaining experience,
session, participants likely discussed strategies for
setting the stage for a week filled with
securing a stable supply of critical minerals, potential
insightful discussions, ground-breaking
challenges in their procurement, and the importance
initiatives, and impactful collaborations.
of diversifying sources to mitigate supply chain risks.
Throughout the opening ceremony,
participants honoured the rich history
2. Africa's Role in Industrialization: Africa holds
of Mining Indaba while looking forward
significant potential for industrialization, particularly
to the future of the mining industry with
in the manufacturing of components for electronics
optimism and determination.
and automotive industries. The continent boasts
abundant natural resources, a growing labour
force, and increasing investment in infrastructure
DAY 1 and technology. Discussions in this session may
have focused on leveraging Africa's capabilities to
enhance global supply chains, fostering partnerships
Mining Indaba 2024 Opening Ceremony with African countries, and addressing any barriers
We had our highly anticipated inaugural ceremony, to effective industrialization on the continent.
marking the grand celebration of the 30th anniversary
of Mining Indaba. We came together to honour this 3. ESG Performance in the Global Supply Chain
significant milestone for an engaging and entertaining Debate: Environmental, Social, and Governance
experience that set the stage for the week ahead. (ESG) considerations have become increasingly
important in the business world, including
Global Electronic and Automotive Producers Talk within global supply chains. Companies are
shop under growing pressure from stakeholders to
The Global Electronic and Automotive Producers demonstrate responsible practices concerning
Talk shop appears to be a forum or meeting where environmental sustainability, social impact, and
representatives from global electronic and automotive corporate governance. In the context of this talk
industries come together to discuss pertinent issues shop, participants likely explored the implications
related to their sectors. The topics discussed in this of ESG performance on supply chain management,
particular session include accessing critical minerals, including risk mitigation, brand reputation, and
Africa's potential role in industrialization, and the regulatory compliance. They may have discussed
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Bullion World | Volume 4 | Issue 3 | March 2024
strategies for integrating ESG principles into supply
chain operations, such as sourcing sustainable DAY 2
materials, ensuring fair labour practices, and
promoting transparency and accountability.
Mining Innovation & Research Battlefield
Overall, the Global Electronic and Automotive Producers
Following a series of compelling presentations at
Talk shop provides a platform for industry leaders to
the Mining Indaba, the spotlight now shines on the
exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate
2024 Mining Innovation and Research Battlefield, an
on addressing common challenges and opportunities
esteemed platform convened by the Development
in their respective sectors. By discussing topics such
Partner Institute (DPI). Among the standout pitches,
as accessing critical minerals, Africa's industrialization
Grace Akinyi, the Founder of Women In Mining Kenya,
potential, and ESG performance, participants aim to
emerges as a beacon of innovation and leadership. Her
foster innovation, sustainability, and resilience in global
visionary approach to advancing the role of women in
supply chains.
the mining sector not only garnered recognition but
also underscores the vital importance of diversity and
Welcome Address - South Africa
inclusion in industry transformation. With a focus on
Hon. Minister Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral
empowering women in traditionally male-dominated
Resources & Energy for the Government of South Africa
fields, Grace Akinyi's pioneering efforts promise to
welcomed Mining Indaba.
reshape the dynamics of the mining landscape in Kenya
and beyond, setting a powerful example for sustainable
Disruptive Discussions Launch
development and equitable participation.
The launch of Disruptive Discussions marks the
beginning of an exciting and bold chapter in the
As the recipient of this prestigious honour, Grace Akinyi
African mining industry. Drawing upon the perspectives
exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience driving
of leading mining companies operating across the
the mining industry forward. Her initiative not only
continent, this initiative sets out to catalyse positive
fosters gender equality but also cultivates a culture of
transformations and disruptions within the sector.
collaboration and shared prosperity within the mining
Participants in this inaugural event shared invaluable
community. By championing the inclusion of women in
insights into their strategies, highlighting innovative
mining activities, Grace not only unlocks untapped talent
approaches aimed at reshaping not only the industry
and expertise but also catalyses broader socioeconomic
landscape but also the socioeconomic fabric of nations
benefits for communities and economies. The recognition
and the African continent as a whole.
of her work at the Mining Innovation and Research
Battlefield signifies a pivotal moment in the industry's
At the core of these discussions lies a commitment
evolution, highlighting the transformative potential of
to embracing change and driving forward-thinking
grassroots initiatives in shaping a more inclusive and
initiatives. Mining companies are exploring new
sustainable future for mining.
technologies, sustainable practices, and collaborative
partnerships to unlock untapped potential and address
Responsible Resourcing Awards
longstanding challenges. By fostering an environment
Introducing the winners of the Responsible Resourcing
of openness and collaboration, the launch of Disruptive
Awards at Mining Indaba 2024, honouring outstanding
Discussions signals a collective determination to
sustainable development efforts: Caledonian Mining
transcend traditional paradigms and chart a course
(Climate), Copper 360 (Circularity & DEI) Copper 360,
towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous
Base Resources (Transparency & Economy), Thor
future for African mining.
Exploration (Labor), Dynamic Mining (Community
Engagement), Homestead Diamonds (Nature).
Special thanks to Onyen for sponsoring this impactful
program.
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Bullion World | Volume 4 | Issue 3 | March 2024
Simandou Case Study
The Simandou Case Study presents a snapshot of DAY 3
stakeholders convening to deliberate on the progress
and future outlook of the Simandou project, a significant
Country Showcases
mining venture in Guinea.
Day 3 started off by exploring investment, exploration,
and production prospects in Saudi Arabia, Namibia,
The gathering provided a valuable forum for stakeholders
and Nigeria at the country showcases. Throughout the
to engage in constructive dialogue, exchange insights,
week, we also delved into showcases from Angola,
and align strategies for the project's advancement in
Cote d'Ivoire, Tanzania, and Zambia, uncovering diverse
2024 and beyond. Throughout the hour-long session,
opportunities across the mining landscape.
participants explored various facets of the project,
including its ambitions, partnership structures, and
Disruptive Discussion: The power women yield as
collaborative endeavours aimed at enhancing production
positive disrupters in the mining industry and the
efficiency and sustainability.
WIMSA breakfast
The Disruptive Discussion on the power of women as
Amidst the discussions, stakeholders likely emphasized
positive disrupters in the mining industry, coupled with
the ambitious goals set forth for the Simandou project,
the Women in Mining South Africa (WIMSA) breakfast,
underscoring its potential to catalyse economic
provided a pivotal platform to recognize and celebrate
development and social progress in Guinea and the
the significant contributions of women within the
broader region. With the project poised to unlock
sector. As catalysts for change, women have been
substantial mineral resources, stakeholders likely
instrumental in challenging traditional norms and driving
deliberated on strategies to maximize its positive impact
innovation, ultimately leading to improved outcomes
while mitigating potential risks and challenges.
across various facets of the mining industry. Through
thought-provoking discussions and shared experiences,
Moreover, partnership structures would have been a
participants highlighted the transformative potential
focal point of discussion, as stakeholders sought to
inherent in diverse perspectives and leadership styles,
foster strong collaborations between governments, local
underscoring the importance of gender equality and
communities, investors, and industry players to ensure
inclusivity in fostering a more dynamic and resilient
the project's success.
mining ecosystem.
By leveraging collective expertise and resources,
The event served as an inspiring testament to the
stakeholders aim to streamline operations, optimize
growing influence and leadership of women in mining,
resource utilization, and uphold best practices in
offering a unique opportunity to amplify their voices and
environmental stewardship and social responsibility,
showcase their achievements. By shining a spotlight
thereby laying the groundwork for sustainable and
on the diverse talents and capabilities of women within
mutually beneficial outcomes for all involved parties.
the industry, the gathering not only celebrated their
successes but also underscored the imperative of
Investment roundtables
empowering and advancing gender diversity as a driver
Today's Investment Series put a spotlight on commodity
of progress and innovation. Through collaboration,
trends in Gold & PGMs, Lithium & Graphite, Manganese
mentorship, and advocacy, participants affirmed their
& Iron ore, and Nickel, Cobalt & Copper.
commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive
mining sector, one that harnesses the full potential of all
its stakeholders to chart a course towards sustainable
growth and prosperity.
Junior Miners Day and the Investment Battlefield
Junior Miners Day and the Investment Battlefield served
as platforms to highlight the crucial role of junior mining
firms within the industry ecosystem. These events
provided a dedicated space to discuss the unique
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Bullion World | Volume 4 | Issue 3 | March 2024
the African continent. Led by emerging young leaders
challenges and opportunities that junior miners face,
in the mining industry, the discussion centred on the
recognizing their significance in driving exploration
potential for discovering valuable mineral deposits and
and development initiatives worldwide. Throughout the
bringing new mines into existence. Participants explored
day, participants engaged in discussions surrounding
a wide range of topics, including the latest technologies,
pertinent topics such as access to financing, regulatory
policies, regulations, and best practices necessary
hurdles, and technological innovations, all of which
to navigate the complexities of exploration and
central to the success of junior are mining companies.
development in Africa's diverse geological landscapes.
Moreover, the Investment Battlefield offered a
Throughout the session, young leaders shared insights,
competitive arena for junior mining firms to showcase
experiences, and innovative approaches to overcoming
their achievements and present compelling
barriers and maximizing the potential of mining
investment opportunities to potential stakeholders.
ventures on the continent. They examined the role of
By acknowledging outstanding contributions from
cutting-edge technologies such as remote sensing,
these companies in exploration and development
artificial intelligence, and data analytics in streamlining
endeavours, the battlefield not only celebrated their
exploration processes and identifying prospective
accomplishments but also provided a platform for
mineral deposits. Additionally, discussions focused
networking, collaboration, and investment. This
on the importance of robust regulatory frameworks,
recognition underscores the vital role that junior miners
community engagement strategies, and sustainable
play in advancing the mining industry's growth and
practices to ensure responsible and inclusive mining
sustainability, highlighting their potential to uncover
operations that benefit both local communities and the
valuable mineral resources and drive economic
broader economy.
development in regions around the world.
Overall, the session underscored the immense
The signing ceremony for Ministers
opportunities for economic growth and development
At this year's Mining Indaba, we marked a significant
presented by the mining sector in Africa, while also
milestone with a signing ceremony for Ministers.
highlighting the need for collaborative efforts and
We're honoured to host and enthusiastic about the
forward-thinking leadership to address the associated
Africa Minerals Strategy Group's pledge to promote
challenges and realize its full potential.
collaboration among African nations and strategic allies,
unleashing critical mineral potential for mutual gain.
General Counsel Forum: Coup you going to call?
The panel considered the role of in-house legal
leadership in strategic and preventive risk management.
DAY 4
Conclusion:
As Mining Indaba 2024 drew to a close, it left an indelible
General Counsel Forum mark on the global mining community, embodying the
Wendy Bampton, COO and Co-Founder of Africa Legal, spirit of innovation, collaboration, and resilience that
delivered the event welcome for the General Counsel defines the industry. From the launch of Disruptive
Forum, setting the tone for a day of enlightening content. Discussions to the celebration of women's leadership in
Young Leaders Opening Address mining, each event showcased the diverse talents and
Timothy Schultz, Partner and SA Energy & Resources unwavering commitment driving progress and positive
Lead at Brunswick Group, set the tone for an exceptional change within the sector. As delegates departed,
Young Leaders Programme with his opening address, inspired by the week's highlights, they carried with
exploring "What Young People Say They Want from them a renewed sense of purpose and determination to
Mining." continue advancing responsible and sustainable mining
practices for the benefit of all stakeholders and future
Young Leaders: “There’s Gold in Them Thar Hills” generations.
"Young Leaders: 'There's Gold in Them Thar Hills'" was
a dynamic session that delved into the opportunities
and challenges inherent in mining exploration across
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