Having set the theme for Africa’s largest mining conference as “Stronger together: progress through partnerships”, the organisers of the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026 have emphasised how the future of African mining lies in partnerships.

“Whether it is governments harmonising regulations, companies investing in communities or innovators pushing technological boundaries, collaboration is the key to unlocking Africa’s full potential.”

The organisers of the Mining Indaba recognise that Africa’s mining sector stands at a crossroads, given its vast mineral reserves required by the world to develop greener technology and Africa needing to map the role it will play in the global economy.

The organisers say African mining is seeing renewed interest from investors and developers globally, but, for the sector to realise this potential and capitalise on opportunities, will require collective efforts from governments, private-sector players, downstream buyers, communities and civil society.

Mining Indaba executive advisory board chairperson Frans Baleni says the latest conference theme aligns with South Africa’s philosophy of “ubuntu” which refers to a shared, essential humanism.

“Ubuntu holds that unity is strength – that when we work together, we craft a better future. By collaborating, we can shape outcomes for the betterment of all stakeholders – and the environment,” he notes.

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe shares the same sentiment, having been quoted on numerous occasions as saying that South Africa’s and the mining sector’s strength lies in building partnerships that recognise the mutual value of investment.

While investors seek returns, rightly so, he says there should be equal commitment to ensuring that the benefits of growth and development are shared with workers, communities and the country at large.

“Progress is only meaningful when it lifts all stakeholders,” he says.

UN Economic Commission for Africa economic affairs officer Dr Marit Kitaw agrees, saying that the “Stronger together: progress through partnerships” theme for next year’s Mining Indaba is a call to reimagine the way Africa’s mineral bounty can be developed to benefit a wider range of stakeholders.

By fostering mutual respect, transparent dialogue and inclusive decision-making, the mining sector can ensure that Africa’s mineral wealth becomes a catalyst for justice, prosperity and dignity for all, Kitaw adds.  

CRITICAL MINERALS DRIVE

According to studies done by the UN, Africa has 40% of the world’s gold and up to 90% of the world’s chromium and platinum reserves. It also holds about 55% of the world’s cobalt reserves.

Various global debates are under way to determine what critical minerals are necessary and strategically important for economic, technological and development growth. Precisely which minerals are critical varies according to national interests.

To maximise the benefit of having these reserves and resources, stakeholders in South Africa’s mining sector agree that the continent must move beyond exporting raw materials to developing local beneficiation and refining capabilities.

In particular, Mining Indaba executive advisory board member Tony Caroll advocates for a strategic pivot, since neither bulk exports of unrefined ore nor export bans are durable solutions.

He deems it necessary for the continent’s mining industry to pivot toward practices that provide more value and technology transfer, which will, in turn, require viable refining technologies and the provision of supportive infrastructure through public-private partnerships.

Caroll, like Baleni and Kitaw, says such a shift will require governments, investors and mining companies to work together in developing industrial hubs, reliable transport networks and energy systems that support local processing and manufacturing.

“By prioritising infrastructure and industrialisation, Africa can position itself as a leader in the global energy transition while ensuring that its mineral wealth benefits its people,” Caroll states.

When African governments unite, in particular, it allows for stronger governance and harmonises policies, which in turn enable a stable and attractive investment environment.

With this stable foundation for investment, international partnerships can bring technology, funding and expertise to fast-track success, says Mining Indaba content and communities director Laura Nicholson.

Technology innovations is another cornerstone of Mining Indaba 2026, with delegates set to discuss AI-driven exploration and digital twin technology, which ultimately enhance efficiency, safety and reliability.

Nicholson concludes that the Mining Indaba will, once again, serve as a platform where transformative ideas and collaborations come to life.

“Our goal is to drive both investment and the kind of innovative technology partnerships that create shared prosperity.”