By Rob Tyson
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, February 4, 2025 — Day two of the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2025 continued the momentum set on opening day, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to discuss the future of African mining. With a packed agenda covering critical topics such as infrastructure development, artisanal mining, supply chain resilience, and the role of ESG in mining investments, the discussions highlighted Africa’s growing influence in the global mining sector.
Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining: What Needs to Change?
The formalization and professionalization of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) took center stage in a panel sponsored by the European Partnership for Responsible Minerals (EPRM). Speakers Dodie Mobutu (Enterprise Générale de Cobalt) and Dr. Rachel Perks (World Bank) addressed the pressing challenges in ASM, particularly in the Ivorian gold and Congolese cobalt sectors.
Dr. Perks emphasized that “formalizing ASM is not just about regulation; it’s about creating sustainable livelihoods and integrating these miners into the broader economy.” The session focused on how to move from short-lived pilot projects to long-term solutions that provide ASM workers with financial stability and environmental safeguards.
Learning from Brazil: How Africa Can Boost Mining Infrastructure
A discussion on Africa’s infrastructure potential examined how Brazil’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model could be adapted to the African mining industry. Experts explored the key factors that made Brazil’s approach successful and how it could be replicated in countries like South Africa and Angola.
The consensus was that long-term private investment, transparent regulatory frameworks, and sustainable project execution are essential for success. Mining leaders called for increased collaboration between African governments and private investors to build resilient and efficient mining infrastructure that benefits local economies.
The Dealmaker’s Den: Recognizing Innovation in Mining Investment
One of the most exciting highlights of Day Two was The Dealmaker’s Den, where top mining projects pitched to a panel of investors in a high-stakes competition. Congratulations to Midnight Sun Mine for winning this year’s Dealmaker’s Den at Mining Indaba 2025! Their innovative exploration and development strategies set them apart, securing investor confidence and industry recognition. Frontier Rare Earths was named runner-up, impressing the panel with their forward-thinking approach to rare earth mineral development. Well done to all competitors for their outstanding presentations, showcasing the cutting-edge projects driving the future of African mining.
Leadership in Mining: Are We Future-Proofing the Industry?
A thought-provoking session on leadership in African mining questioned whether obtaining a social license to operate (SLO) is enough for long-term success. Industry leaders agreed that beyond securing SLO, mining companies must prioritize sustainability, technological innovation, and active community engagement.
As one speaker put it, “The mining industry must lead with transparency and accountability to ensure that African communities see real benefits from resource extraction.” Discussions also touched on the importance of climate resilience and how mining companies should integrate ESG principles into their long-term strategies.
Value Chain Development: Unlocking Africa’s Energy Transition Potential
With the global shift toward critical minerals for clean energy, African governments are looking to add value to their vast mineral resources. A key session explored how countries can invest in refining and processing facilities to boost local industries.
Panelists emphasized that mining investment should go beyond raw material extraction to include battery production, metal smelting, and midstream manufacturing. This strategy not only enhances Africa’s position in global supply chains but also creates jobs and stimulates economic diversification.
Tackling Corruption in Mining: Why Is It So Hard to Talk About?
A powerful discussion addressed the difficulties of confronting corruption in the mining industry. Panelists examined the cultural taboos, reputational risks, and regulatory complexities that discourage companies from openly discussing corruption.
The session called for a culture of transparency where businesses can share best practices for ethical mining without fear of legal or reputational backlash. Industry leaders agreed that greater international cooperation and regulatory alignment could help eliminate corruption and build investor confidence in African mining.
ESG in Mining: Building Responsible Supply Chains
An invite-only session hosted by the MSP Forum focused on how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are shaping responsible mineral supply chains. Experts discussed key issues such as:
- Improving transparency in supply chains
- Ensuring ethical sourcing of critical minerals
- Minimizing environmental impact through sustainable mining practices
The discussion underscored that integrating ESG is no longer optional—it is a business imperative for companies aiming to attract responsible investors and meet global market demands.
Is Policy Slowing Down Mining Innovation?
The Tech & Innovation Hub featured a session debating whether government policies are blocking technological advancements in the mining sector. Speakers questioned whether regulations are keeping up with the rapid pace of AI, automation, and data analytics in mining.
The session emphasized that policymakers must adapt regulations to support innovation while ensuring safety and ethical practices. “Technology is advancing faster than policy, and we need to find a balance between regulation and progress,” one expert noted.
Commodity Outlook: What’s Next for Africa’s Mining Sector?
Africa-based investors and analysts shared insights on the commodity market outlook for 2025. Industry leaders from S&P Global, African Export-Import Bank, and Absa CIB discussed key trends affecting gold, platinum, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
The panel highlighted that Africa is well-positioned to benefit from the global demand for energy transition minerals, but strategic policies and investments are needed to maximize value retention within the continent.
Angola’s Mining Potential: A Rising Star in Africa
The Angola Mining Business Forum showcased the country’s growing mining sector, focusing on investment opportunities in diamonds, niobium, and base metals. Government officials and industry leaders outlined new legislative and geological mapping initiatives designed to attract foreign investment.
With a clear strategy for economic diversification, Angola is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s mining industry.
Happy Hour at the Mining Indaba Wine Farm
To wrap up the day, attendees gathered at the Mining Indaba Wine Farm for an exclusive networking event. Each day features a different South African wine selection, providing a taste of the country’s vibrant wine culture while fostering business connections in a relaxed setting.
Final Thoughts on Day Two
From formalizing ASM to tackling corruption, advancing ESG, and enhancing local value chains, day two of Mining Indaba 2025 provided critical insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s mining industry.
As discussions continue throughout the week, investors and industry leaders will look to turn these insights into actionable strategies for sustainable growth, responsible mining, and long-term economic transformation across the continent.
