Mining
Mining is the extraction of valuable minerals, metals and other geological materials from the earth, encompassing both surface and underground operations. The sector includes the exploration, development, extraction and processing of resources such as gold, platinum, diamonds, coal, iron-ore, copper, manganese and other commodities. Mining is a capital-intensive industry requiring significant investment in infrastructure, equipment and technology, with operations ranging from small-scale artisanal workings to large multinational corporations. The industry plays a crucial role in global supply chains, providing raw materials for manufacturing, energy generation, construction and technology sectors. In Africa, mining is a cornerstone of many national economies, particularly in South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it contributes substantially to gross domestic product, export earnings and employment. The sector faces ongoing challenges including commodity price volatility, regulatory complexity, environmental and social licence considerations, energy security, water availability and the need to improve safety standards. Technological advancement is increasingly important, with automation, digitalisation, predictive maintenance systems and artificial intelligence being adopted to enhance productivity, reduce costs and improve operational safety. The industry is also under pressure to demonstrate sustainable practices, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to broader socioeconomic development in host communities. Mining's significance extends beyond direct economic contribution, as it supports extensive downstream industries including smelting, refining, manufacturing and logistics.
Mining Updates
R65-million tax deduction rejected: Tax court sends warning to companies funding related-party expenses
9th October 2026 A recent Tax Court judgment has delivered a multimillion-rand reminder to South African businesses that paying another company's expenses, does not... →
Mining industry commits to investing more in combating GBV in South Africa – Dunne
By: Schalk Burger 8th October 2026 The member companies of mining industry organisation the Minerals Council South Africa have committed to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and... →
Catastrophic events demand faster, smarter responses as legal, environmental, and financial risks intensify
8th October 2026 The response mounted in the first hours and days following a catastrophic event can have far-reaching consequences for organisations, insurers,... →
Mining industry focused on creating sustainable State capacity to drive development, Joburg Indaba hears
By: Schalk Burger 7th October 2026 South Africa's mining industry, which has developed infrastructure to support mines and their surrounding communities, is working with government... →
Eskom to facilitate construction of more data centres in South Africa, Ramokgopa tells Windaba delegates
By: Rebecca Campbell 6th October 2026 Power utility Eskom will soon make a major announcement about facilitating the construction of data centres in South Africa. This was announced by... →
Zambia to sign $1.5bn US health pact after resolving differences over data-sharing
By: Reuters 6th October 2026 Zambia's government will sign an agreement allowing it to receive $1.5-billion in health funding from the United States after resolving concerns... →
What South Africa must get right to win back mining investment
5th October 2026 The 2026 Joburg Indaba (Indaba) comes at a critical moment for South African mining. Demand for secure mineral supply is rising, but capital... →
Egypt, South Africa launch business council to drive industry and agriculture
By: Schalk Burger 5th October 2026 Egypt and South Africa have launched a Joint Business Council to boost trade, including in mining, agriculture, renewable energy and mobility, and... →
South Africa risks leaving much manganese value unrealised if logistics issues persist 
By: Martin Creamer 2nd October 2026 South Africa’s Manganese Producers Consortium (MPC), which represents producers that account for 60% of South Africa’s manganese ore exports, does... →
Africa's greatest mineral asset isn't underground
1st October 2026 The global race for critical minerals is entering a new phase. No longer defined solely by access to mineral reserves, it is increasingly being... →
