The 3rd annual London Indaba sets the stage for high-stakes conversations on mining, critical minerals and investment in the continent’s future

With African critical minerals taking centre stage in the global energy transition, the 3rd annual London Indaba is set to be one of the most important industry gatherings of the year. Taking place on 24 and 25 June 2025 at the InterContinental Park Lane, London, this landmark event promises compelling dialogue on the evolving mining landscape, investor strategies and the continent’s pivotal role in the future of global critical mineral supply.

Chaired by industry stalwart Bernard Swanepoel, the London Indaba will gather a powerhouse lineup of speakers, from mining CEOs and chairpersons to policymakers, analysts and investors. The agenda, released today, accentuates just how urgently Africa’s resources are being scrutinised, not only for their commercial potential but also for their critical relevance to climate goals, geopolitical shifts and sustainable development.

“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.” Bernard Swanepoel

From Gold to Green Energy

Gold continues to soar in uncertain markets, reaching unprecedented prices above US$2 300 per ounce in Q1 2025. Heavyweights like Mike Fraser, CEO of Gold Fields, and Neal Froneman, Chairman of the World Gold Council, will tackle what’s next for the gold sector amid inflation fears, investment hedging and market volatility.

But it’s not just gold catching the world’s attention. Copper, indispensable in electric vehicles, renewable grids and global electrification, is riding a bullish wave as supply constraints collide with surging demand. Experts including Chris Griffith (Vedanta Base Metals), Paul Gait (Anglo American), Nicolas Treand, (ERG Africa) and Tristan Pascall (First Quantum Minerals) will examine copper’s crucial role in the energy transition.

Mark Cutifani, Chairman of Vale Base Metals, will deliver a pivotal address on why Africa holds the key to future-facing minerals, while Marna Cloete, CEO of Ivanhoe Mines, will offer a candid perspective on both the opportunities and operational realities of mining in Africa today.

“What makes the London Indaba different is our commitment to open dialogue. No echo chambers, no soft questions. This is where CEOs, investors, policymakers and innovators meet to engage in the tough conversations that move the industry forward. Africa deserves that kind of platform and the world needs that kind of clarity.” Bernard Swanepoel

A Changing World Order

Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and regulatory upheaval, sessions such as “Navigating Choppy Waters” led by Dr Fiona Perrott-Humphrey will delve into global dynamics affecting mining investment. With contributions from chairs of Glencore, Newmont, Rio Tinto, Endeavour Mining and Gécamines, the session promises a rare view into the boardroom thinking that shapes global strategy.

Further exploring the impact of political shifts, Peter Leon will lead a panel on the influence of geopolitics on African mineral policies, while Ronak Gopaldas (Signal Risk) provides a broader lens on Africa's positioning within a realigned global order, along with McKinsey and Eunomix.

A key highlight will be the address by H.E. Eng. Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, on whether Africa is truly ready to step up as a critical minerals superpower. This will be followed by a dialogue with African ambassadors, facilitated by Chatham House’s Christopher Vandome, spotlighting perspectives from South Africa, Guinea and Botswana.

Investment, Juniors and Capital Markets

As capital chases the next frontier in critical minerals, junior miners are vital to unlocking new resource bases. A dedicated session will feature insights from Premier Miton, Orion Resource Partners, Koryx Copper and Pensana plc, examining the risks and rewards of early-stage investment across the continent.

Simultaneously, CFOs and asset managers will weigh in on managing competing demands, from ESG to shareholder returns, in a capital-constrained world. Participating voices include Gillian Doran (AngloGold Ashanti), Boipelo Lekubo (Harmony Gold), and Jim Rutherford (Manara Minerals), as well as institutional investors like George Chevley (NinetyOne) and Chad Malan (VanEck).

Africa’s mineral wealth is no longer a future opportunity; it’s a present imperative. As the world races to decarbonise, nations and companies alike are scrambling to secure mineral supply chains. And with growing regulatory complexity, from South Africa’s revised Mining Charter to Ghana’s controversial 3% levy and Zambia’s electricity constraints, investors are demanding deeper insight into risk, return and resilience.

With a closing keynote by Beyers Nel, Harmony Gold Mining Company CEO, on mining in emerging market countries and how to position your company to turn risks into opportunities, the London Indaba is where many questions will be asked -  and answered.