Future-proofing African mining, today,’ is not just a theme, it’s a commitment we offer to you – a support structure to help ensure we build sustainable businesses of the future.
Laura Nicholson, Head of Content & Strategic Partnerships
Dear loyal Mining Indaba attendee,
How quickly another Mining Indaba has come – in fact, so quick for me that the momentum started in 2024 feels very much a natural, seamless continuation into 2025.
And.. we want the buzz and excitement everyone brought to this event last year to continue. Not because Mining Indaba is a great event, but because the mining industry is without doubt a great industry – not without its trials and tribulations, but because we always rise above this which continuously makes us more resilient.
Resilience is also required to best adapt to change, and one thing we can be certain of, change, and the pace at which change is happening, is increasing. Commodity prices are fluctuating more and with less predictive certainty, political landscapes are evolving (especially with so many elections held in 2024) and technology is pushing new boundaries, constantly.
This degree of change is hard to embrace, even for the most resilient mining company – and that is where Mining Indaba’s core purpose steps up to the plate. We (I say ‘we’ and not ‘it’ because the team comprises individuals who care) are here
to help support understanding, navigating and adapting to that change. This happens either through conversations between stakeholders who rarely meet face to face, through strong content that is designed to inform, educate and provide guidance and through opportunities to showcase how your business is there to make change an easier pill to swallow.
That’s what keeps my drive at an alltime high – knowing that the work myself and the Mining Indaba team deliver – truly makes a difference to this incredible industry. ‘Futureproofing African mining, today,’ is not just a theme, it’s a commitment we offer to you – a support structure to help ensure we build sustainable businesses of the future. We are also here to challenge the status quo and ask ourselves, is that what Africa needs? The very notion of critical minerals from an Africa perspective is a good example of this and we’re comfortably ensuing we are asking, and answering the right questions in this regard.
To fulfil this commitment, we are bringing, for the first time, EVERY important stakeholder to Mining Indaba to ensure the full value chain of stakeholders
is present and contributing to disruptive conversations needed to embrace the change we face.
So – government, investors, mining companies, services providers – to the eco-system we offer students – the next generation of mining leaders; community representatives – those that are directly impacted by mining and want a seat at the decisionmaking table; and downstream buyers – those that purchase our raw materials to produce consumer products. Each of these stakeholders sit inside the inner circle of mining and so we have ensured their voice will be heard.
Most importantly, what I must highlight last is the message that must stay with you when you move through your days at this year’s event – never before has mining in Africa held so much promise and such potential to impact its own people, its own economies and the global world. At Mining Indaba we encourage our countries to come together, to work together, to find positive solutions that leave me with one closing statement: Africa – your time is now!
Together, we can transform Africa’s mining sector into a global benchmark for excellence.
By Frans Baleni, Chairman of the Executive Advisory Board, Mining Indaba
Africa’s Mining Transformation: Future-Proofing the Continent’s Resources Today
Africa’s mining sector is at a transformative juncture, shifting from being seen as a reservoir of untapped resources to a hub of innovation and collaboration. The theme of Mining Indaba 2025, “Future-Proofing African Mining, Today!”, emphasises the urgency of addressing present challenges while laying a sustainable foundation for the future.
Why Africa’s Time Is Now
Africa holds an abundance of critical minerals – lithium, cobalt, and graphite – that are vital for the global clean energy transition. Beyond supply chains, the continent is championing responsible practices, fostering local value addition, and advocating for equitable partnerships. By prioritising people, planet, and profit, Africa is uniquely positioned to lead the mining transformation.
Collaboration Across the Value Chain
Realising the full potential of Africa’s mining sector requires alignment across stakeholders:
• Governments must establish stable regulatory environments.
• Mining companies need to adopt sustainable practices and invest in local communities.
• Investors should prioritise ESGaligned, long-term projects.
• Downstream industries must foster fair value distribution and local growth.
Empowering Communities and Young Leaders
Inclusion is central to Africa’s mining future:
• Indigenous communities must have a voice in decisions to ensure cultural heritage is respected and benefits are tangible.
• Women bring innovation and resilience, making gender equality a moral and economic imperative.
• Young leaders will drive technological advancements, ensuring the industry remains competitive and forward-looking.
As we convene for Mining Indaba 2025, let us unite to future-proof African mining and create a legacy of inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability. Together, we can transform Africa’s mining sector into a global benchmark for excellence. This is our moment – let’s seize it.
Collaborate with Industry Leaders to Shape the Future of Mining
DON’T MISS THE DEBUT OF OUR INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS TODAY! MINING INDABA
WORKSHOP 1
Maximising Africa’s Critical Minerals Endowment
Africa’s Strategic Edge: Critical Minerals for a Global Clean Energy Future
Monday, 03 February CTICC2 13:00 – 14:30
Sponsored by:
WORKSHOP 2
Game-Changing Technologies
Unlocking the Future of Mining Operations: The Tech-Enabled Mining Workshop
Monday, 03 February CTICC2
Sponsored by:
Venue: CTICC 2 | Floor 3 | Watsonia Room.
*Open to all delegates, limited seating available – arrive early to secure your spot.
The Investment Village at CTICC1 is the ultimate hub for investors and mining companies, fostering powerful connections through networking, commodity roundtables, and an exclusive exploration showcase featuring 40 cutting-edge African projects.
With dynamic coffee breaks and prescheduled meetings via the Mining Indaba App, this space drives collaboration and unlocks new opportunities.
WHERE INVESTMENT MEETS OPPORTUNITY
A game-changer for investors and industry leaders, it fosters powerful connections and uncovers untapped growth potential in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Global Investor Commission on Mining 2030 - Historic legacies addressed and positive legacies created Is an investor-led initiative shaping a responsible mining future by 2030. It seeks input on defining legacy impacts and creating positive outcomes for current operations.
Monday, 03 February CTICC1 15:00 – 17:00
Speakers Include:
• Adam Matthews (Moderator): Chief Responsible Investment Officer, Church of England Pensions Board
• Dr. Rory Sullivan: CEO, Chronos Sustainability
• Gemma James: Head of Biodiversity and Nature, Chronos Sustainability
INVESTMENT AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
Monday, 03 February CTICC1 11:00 – 11:05: Host welcome remarks 11:05 – 11:30: Keynote: Commodity outlook 2025 by Woodmac 11:30 – 12:15: Panel Discussion: Commodity outlook - an international perspective 14:00 – 14:45: Commodity Roundtables: Gold & PGMs 14:45 – 15:00: Commodity Roundtable Summary 17:00 – 17:10: Closing Remarks
CONFIRMED HEADS OF STATE
• H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa
• H.E. Judith Suminwa Tuluka, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa President of the Republic of South Africa
Hon. Diamantino Azevedo Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Republic of Angola
Hon. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa Minister of Electricity and Energy, Republic of South Africa
Mpho Parks Tau Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Republic of South Africa
H.E. Albert M. Muchanga Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM), African Union Commission
Hon. Gwede Mantashe Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Republic of South Africa
Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo Minister of Minerals and Energy, Republic of Botswana
Hon. Professor Fuh Calistus Gentry Minister of Mines, Industries and Technological Development, Republic of Cameroon
Hon. Rufin Benam Beltoungou Minister of Mines and Geology, Central African Republic
Hon. Ndolenodji Alixe Naimbaye Minister of Petroleum, Mines & Geology, Republic of Chad
Hon. Pierre Oba Minister of Mines and Geology, Republic of Congo
Hon. Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly Minister of Mines, Oil & Energy, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire
H.E. Kizito Pakabomba Kapinga Mulume Minister of Mines, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Hon. Teddy Lwamba Muba Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity, Democratic Republic of the Congo
H.E. Judith Suminwa Tuluka Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Hon. Antonio Oburu Ondo Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development, Republic of Equatorial Guinea
H.E. Eng. Karim Badawi Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Arab Republic of Egypt
Hon. Eng. Habtamu Tegegne Minister of Mines, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Hon. Bouna Sylla Minister of Mines and Geology Republic of Guinea
Hon. Emmanuel ArmahKofi Buah Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Republic of Ghana
Hon. Djiba Diakité Minister Director of Cabinet, Republic of Guinea
Hon. Djami Diallo Minister of Environment, Republic of Guinea
Hon. Mourana Soumah Minister of Economy & Finance, Republic of Guinea
Hon. Malam Sambu Minister of Natural Resources, Republic of Guinea-Bissau
H.E. Birame Soulèye Diop Minister of Energy, Oil and Mines, Republic of Senegal Hon. Julius Daniel Mattai Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Republic of Sierra Leone
Hon. Anthony P. Mavunde (MP) Minister of Minerals, United Republic of Tanzania
Mr Francis Kamanzi Chief Executive Officer, Republic of Rwanda
John Uwajumogu Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Industry, Trade, and Investment, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Hon. Frank Tayali (MP) Minister of Transport and Logistics, Republic of Zambia
Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro (MP) Minister of State for Mineral Development, Republic of Uganda
Hon. Paul Kabuswe Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Republic of Zambia
Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane (MP) Minister of Finance and National Planning, Republic of Zambia
Hon. Winston Chitando Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Republic of Zimbabwe
Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu Minister of Steel Development Federal, Republic of Nigeria
Hon. Dr. Oladele Henry Alaaake Minister of Solid Minerals Development Federal, Republic of Nigeria
Commissaire Colonel Ousmane Abarchi Minister of Mines, Republic of the Niger
Hon. Estevão Tomás Rafael Pale Minister of Mineral Resources & Energy, Republic of Mozambique
H.E. Thiam Tidjani Minister of Mines and Industry, Islamic Republic of Mauritania
Hon. Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma Minister of Mining, Republic of Malawi
Hon. Wilmot
J.M. Paye Minister of Mines and Energy, Republic of Liberia
Hon. Mohlomi Moleko Minister of Natural Resources, Kingdom of Lesotho
Hon. Hassan Ali Joho EGH EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Republic of Kenya
INVESTOR ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME
DISRUPTIVE DISCUSSIONS
09:00-12:00
The Assay and 121 Group are offering 12-months of promotional coverage to our unparalleled network of institutional resource investors. Get your company, story and news seen by the right people.
MAGAZINE PROFILES WEBSITE
PROFILE
NEWS RELEASE REPORTING
SOCIAL MEDIA COVERAGE
13:30-13:45
Disruptive discussions: Launch
13:45-14:05
Leader spotlight – Anglo American
14:05-14:25
Leader spotlight – Rio Tinto
14:25-14:45
Leader spotlight – Newmont
14:45-15:05
Leader spotlight – Barrick Gold Corporation
15:05-15:25
Leader spotlight – Eurasian Resources Group
15:25-15:45
Leader spotlight – BHP
15:45-16:05
Leader spotlight – Minerals Council South Africa
16:05-16:15
Leader spotlight – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
16:15-16:35
Leadership spotlight - Kinross
16:35-17:20
Future-proofing African mining, today: Uncovering the Top 5 essential elements for success
TECH & INNOVATION HUB
10:00-10:45
Lateral migration of technologies: Is mining being disruptive enough with technology?
10:45-11:05
Tech in Action: Brand-Agnostic Digital Site Solutions from Volvo
11:05-11:50
Innovating the Future: Strategies for Effective Research Commercialisation in Mining
11:50-12:10
Tech in Action session – Hexagon Mining
13:00-13:45
The Role of Data Standardisation in Attracting Investment
VIDEO
INTERVIEWS
13:45-14:15
Leadership fireside spotlight
AECI Group: The crucial role that innovation plays to ensure growth in the African Mining market.
14:15-14:45
Leadership fireside spotlight
14:45-15:30
Leveraging Data & AI for Workforce Optimization
15:45-16:30
Why are we not reaching zero harm targets?
16:30-17:15
How technology can be of aid in improving the health and safety of personnel in the mining industry, with enhanced focus on women safety
17:15-17:45
Leadership spotlight: Weir Group
YOUR MONDAY AGENDA – 3 FEBRUARY 2025
INTERGOVERNMENTAL SUMMIT
Intergovernmental Summit Track 1
13:00-13:05
Chairperson’s Opening Address
13:05-13:15 Welcome Address – African Development Bank
13:15-14:15
National House of Traditional Leaders Session
14:15-15:00
Critical for who – how producers can flip the script on critical minerals
15:00-15:45
From mines to markets – positioning Africa as the world’s mineral partner of choice
15:45-16:30
Evolving African policy & value – developing a mutually beneficial mineral blueprint
16:30-17:15
Exploration with extraction – investing into the next generation of African mines
Critical Materials Ministerial Roundtable *Strictly by invitation only*
Intergovernmental Summit Track 2
14:00-15:30
Country Showcase – Togo
15:30-16:00
In Conversation with
14:00-14:10
Opening Address
14:10 – 15:10
Who in Africa will get the best deal from the energy transition and why?
16:00-17:30
Showcase - Africa Minerals Development Centre (AMDC)
17:45-17: 50 Closing remarks
12:00-14:00
BCG: Unlocking new sources of mining value through GenAI and digital operations excellence
15:15 – 16:15
How do we future proof African communities from the effects of climate change?
16:15 – 17:15
What are the implications of the development of seabed exploitation for Africa?
14:00-16:00
Beyond Extraction: Building Infrastructure, Skills, and Value in African Mining
Stepping Up and Standing Out: WiMSA’s Vision for Future-
Proofing African Mining
Leadership & Impact: Stepping Up to the Challenge
Since 2010, WiMSA has empowered women across the mining value chain, from entry-level to executive roles. Our inaugural WiMSA Symposium in August 2024, themed “Forge Forward: Empowering Women to Lead,” tackled key issues like imposter syndrome, gender-based violence, and leadership development. Due to its success, we are excited to make the symposium an annual event, continuing to inspire women to excel in their careers and drive progress in the mining industry.
Challenges & Opportunities: Standing Out in the Face of Adversity
Women in mining still face challenges like gender bias, inadequate facilities, and limited career growth. WiMSA addresses these issues through initiatives such as improving facilities with the Mineral Council of South Africa, tackling the gender pay gap, and promoting women into leadership roles. We believe that diversity drives innovation and productivity in the industry.
Vision for the Future: Stepping Up to Future-Proof African Mining
WiMSA’s vision aligns with Mining Indaba 2025’s theme, aiming for 50% women in leadership roles,
with equal representation in both boardrooms and mines. Mentorship is key to our future, and we’re expanding access through workshops and virtual sessions to support women across the sector. We invite partners to join us in creating a talent pipeline that fosters inclusion and drives innovation in African mining.
Call to Action: Standing Out as Agents of Change
The time for change is now. We call on all stakeholders - mining companies, government bodies, and individuals - to join us in this transformative journey. Embrace diversity, challenge biases, and create inclusive workplaces that allow all talents to flourish. To our fellow attendees at Mining Indaba 2025, we say: be the change you wish to see. Champion gender equality in your organisations. Mentor a young woman. Challenge discriminatory practices. Together, we can build a mining industry that truly reflects the diversity and potential of our continent.
As we continue to step up and stand out, WiMSA remains committed to future-proofing African mining by ensuring that women are at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and leadership. Join us in forging this future - a future where every woman can realise her full potential in the mining industry.
The Transformative Role of Women in Mining
• AWIMA Leadership Awards (ALAs): Recognising women excelling in mining, promoting gender diversity and inclusion.
• AWIMA Jewelry Project: Connecting artisanal women miners to global markets, fostering economic empowerment and a responsible, profitable jewelry value chain.
Challenges & Opportunities:
Despite progress, women in mining still face challenges like gender discrimination, limited funding, and underrepresentation in leadership. To address these, AWIMA will launch the Empowering Women through Financial Inclusion Project in 2025. This initiative will provide financial literacy training, improve access to resources, and connect women with financial institutions, promoting gender equality and economic sustainability in Africa’s mining sector.
Vision for the Future:
AWIMA envisions a mining sector where:
• Women occupy leadership positions.
• Artisanal miners and women in business receive the support they need to operate sustainably.
• Young women see mining as a viable and rewarding career path.
Mentorship and inclusion are central to this transformation. AWIMA fosters networks, provides training, and advocates for policy changes to create a more equitable mining industry.
Call to Action:
Achieving this vision requires a collective effort from policymakers, mining companies, and financial institutions to prioritise gender equality and create inclusive environments. MI25 attendees, now is the time to support AWIMA’s initiatives, mentor young women, and advocate for policies that dismantle systemic barriers. Together, we can build a mining industry that reflects both Africa’s mineral wealth and commitment to equity. Empowering women is key to future-proofing African mining—ensuring resilience, innovation, and inclusion. The time to act is now. Let’s mine Africa’s greatest resource: its people.
Celebrating Women’s Excellence in Mining Worldwide
The WIM100 recognizes 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining for their transformative contributions, including trailblazing African representatives driving innovation, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation. Congratulations to the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining Discover their stories of resilience and impact: www.womeninmining.org.uk/wim100-3/
Raksha Naidoo – CEO & Chairperson The Particle Group & Women in Mining South Africa
Zenzi N Awases – President: Association of Women in Mining in Africa (AWIMA)
To empower businesses within the mining industry by simplifying complexities, streamlining operations, and ensuring success through our comprehensive suite of services.
At Elba Afrika, integrity and excellence shapes every phase of our work - from the initial consultation to the final delivery of our services. Focused on transparency and professionalism, we consistently strive to exceed client expectations through innovative solutions and expert guidance, ensuring the successful completion of projects across the region.
Downstream Buyers: Leading the Way in Sustainable Growth and Industry Transformation
Featured Sessions For Downstream Buyers:
Future-proofing African Mining, Today: Uncovering the Top 5 Essential Elements for Success
Monday, 03 February
CTICC1, Disruptive Discussions Stage
16:25-17:20
Moderator:
• Marna Cloete, President, Ivanhoe Mines
Speakers:
• Zenzi Awases, President, Association of Women in Mining in Africa (AWIMA)
• Martina Biene, Chairperson and MD, Volkswagen Group Africa
• Joseph Starwood, Global Mining Expert, Microsoft
• Hein Venter, Mining Sales Director, Michelin
Exploration with Extraction
– Investing in the Next Generation of African Mines
Monday, 03 February
CTICC2, Intergovernmental Summit Track 1
16:30-17:15
Moderator:
• Louis Kruger, Africa Energy Resources & Industrials Industry Leader, Deloitte
Speakers:
• Segun Lawson, CEO, Thor Explorations
• Aysha Lotter, Legal & Policy Consultant, World Resources Forum
• Christer Mhingo, Director - TanzGraphite, Ecograf
• Mostafa Taalat, CEO, Ankh Resources
Groundbreaking Announcement: Students Leading the Future of Mining
Join Nicole Uys on Monday from 09:45-10:30 at CTICC 1, Disruptive Discussions Stage for an insightful session on Industrialising Africa – What Will It Take to Increase Investment in Midstream and Downstream Manufacturing Facilities?
Get ready for an exciting opportunity to engage with the future leaders shaping the future of mining.
Don’t miss out on this transformative session!
Founded in 1946 in Angola, the Mota-Engil Group is now a multinational company focused on the construction and management of infrastructure, operating in the areas of Engineering and Construction, Environment, Transport and Concessions, Energy, and Mining.
Its business trajectory is marked by a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, always in search of new horizons. The Group's growth is based on an integrated diversification strategy, which is essential for a company that is increasingly international, innovative, and competitive on a global scale.
Future-Proofing vs. Uncertainty
The flurry of executive orders and statements emanating from the White House in the past two weeks is unprecedented and serves as an early indication that President Trump intends to deliver on his promises to disrupt the domestic political status quo and assert American global leadership with strength.
Tony Carroll – International Advisor, Executive Advisory Board, Mining Indaba
But what does this mean for Africa and, specifically African mining? If the past is prologue, despite the occasional rhetorical misstep, the first Trump admiration treated Africa with some measure of seriousness. On that watch, Prosper Africa was created to bring coherence to the seventeen US government agencies that impact Africa. Additionally, the US Development Finance Corporation was founded in order to create our first true development finance institution, and which is now complemented by Partnership for Global Infrastructure to invest in global supply chains. But perhaps most importantly, Trump’s Africa leadership team was competent, measured and ambitious. I expect the same in Trump II.
While there has been scant mention of Africa since the inauguration, now Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned in his confirmation hearing that the Trump administration would continue to compete for access to critical minerals in Africa. There are early indications that the DFC will be mobilized to replace traditional foreign assistance and be used like a sovereign wealth fund to invest in critical minerals exploration,
production, processing and stockpiling and in league with business and financial leadership from Wall Street and Silicon Valley. But, if one thing is certain: there will be surprises ahead.
While political level officials are still being selected and confirmation procedures underway in Washington, this year’s indaba will have a robust presence from diverse US government agencies and, for the first time, we will feature a US pavilion where attendees can be briefed on various programs and initiatives.
Apart for government presence, this year we will have record participating from US think tanks and business associations including, the Carnegie Endowment, the Atlantic Council, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the US Institute of Peace, The Business Councill for International Understanding and the US Chamber of Commerce – the largest business association in the world. Each of these institutions have launched critical minerals initiatives in the past few years and collectively, they influence decision makers in government and the US private sector. Both Carnegie Endowment and the Atlantic Council will be hosting substantive event within the Mining indaba.
Today’s Social Agenda
Some years ago, the respected analyst Moletsi Mbeki delivered a speech in Washington where he said that the US should compete in Africa in two areas where its expertise unrivaled: Creative capital formation and technology transfer. A newly fashioned US DFC supported by a competent Prosper Africa team will, in part, satisfy that first area. In the area of technology, the US has evolved powerful academic collaborations between research universities and the private sector. Two shining examples of this collaboration will be present at the Mining Indaba. Kobold Metals is deploying Ai empowered tools to speed and make more efficient the exploration and production of minerals. Kobold is populated with academic leadership drawn from MIT and Stanford. ReElement Technologies has developed a revolutionary refining process for lithium and rare earths developed in collaboration with Purdue University. And of course, the Colorado school of Mines has its tentacles in many emerging technologies in all aspects of mining.
In any event, we expect to welcome a new team of US officials in 2026 and can update you then on the progress that has been made on these bold ambitions.
A new multi-user railway promises to transform Guinea
The Simandou project in Guinea is the largest greenfield integrated mine and infrastructure project in development in Africa. Unlike mining’s traditional model of “pit to port”, Simandou promises to touch every region of the country, bringing development to hitherto neglected communities.
That Simandou can achieve such a feat is thanks to the resolve of the Guinean government and the commitments of industrial partners, led by Rio Tinto and Winning Consortium Simandou (WCS), as well as the primary offtaker, Baowu Steel, which has helped to finance this colossal undertaking, with investments worth USD 18 billion – comparable to Guinea’s GDP.
Decarbonising steelmaking
Simandou is a 110-km-long mountain range in southeast Guinea that contains 2.9 billion tonnes of high-grade iron ore. These prized deposits have an average grade of 65.5% iron and low impurity levels. Simandou ore promises a breakthrough in the decarbonisation of the iron and steel industry. High-grade ore is ideally suited to the production of direct reduced iron, which can be combined with scrap steel in an electric arc furnace to manufacture green steel.
Ongoing work is focused on two mine developments, one managed by WCS at Blocks 1 & 2, and the other operated by Rio Tinto Simfer at Blocks 3 & 4. The industrial partners are committed to achieving first ore extraction before the end of 2025, with each operator targeting a ramp-up in production to 60 million mmtpa by 2028. These efforts are poised to generate transformative income for Guinea, with government revenues from the project set to grow from USD 500 million in 2026 to USD 1.1 billion annually by 2030, and potentially reaching around USD 2 billion a year thereafter.
All aboard the CTG!
The railway construction was started by WCS at a time when the future of the project remained unclear. It runs 600km, crossing 4 administrative regions, 8 prefectures and 22 sub-prefectures, by way of some 27km of tunnels and over 200 bridges. Crucially, the TransGuinean is a mixed-use railway, capable of carrying not only bulks but also goods and passengers.
Under an innovative co-development model, the industrial partners will hand over the completed railway to a dedicated joint venture, La Compagnie du TransGuinéen (CTG), which will take ownership of the railway and operate it for 35 years, after which ownership of the CTG will transfer wholly to the Guinean government. The multi-user model allows for CTG to welcome additional customers and cater for new mines, ensuring that the infrastructure has growth potential beyond peak production at Simandou.
Moreover, with 12 railway stations dotted across the country, the TransGuinean promises to facilitate domestic trade, in what promises to be a new model of industrial growth corridor, representing a major opportunity for agriculture. Guinea possesses over 13 million hectares of arable land, giving it the potential to become the region’s breadbasket.
The architect of this co-development model is Guinea’s President, General Mamadi Doumbouya, who established a strategic committee to implement his vision, which is led by his Chief of Staff and Minister in the Presidency, M. Djiba Diakité, a former banker at Societe Generale. To fully exploit the national development potential of Simandou and its associated infrastructure, the Guinea government is in the process of drafting a new national development plan – Simandou 2040. The government has retained KPMG, Rothschild and SouthBridge as advisors.
Minister of Mines and Geology, and CTG Chairman, Bouna Sylla, explains the potential of the Simandou project to reshape Guinea’s economy.
The multi-use, multi-user design of the TransGuinean railway will enable wagons to transport goods for both export and import, boosting local industries and reducing reliance on imports. By unlocking the full commercial value of this infrastructure, including the creation of free trade zones along the corridor, we aim to make Simandou a cornerstone of Guinea’s economic transformation, leveraging our mineral endowments in much the same way that the UAE has leveraged its petroleum resources to establish itself as a global economic hub.
Bouna Sylla
Ports: key to global trade
The final component of the project lies at Morébaya, some 30km south of the capital, Conakry, where the industrial partners are constructing two new purposebuilt docks within the port area. WCS – which pioneered bauxite transhipment in Indonesia before investing in Guinea – is working on a 70 million tonne per year barge port, orientated around four 12,000-tonne ore barge-loading berths. Rio Tinto is developing its own 60 million tonne per year transhipment vessel port, with each transhipment vessel carrying 40,000 tonnes. Both these facilities will allow the loading of Capesize vessels, each capable of carrying 200,000 tonnes.
In addition, Morébaya promises to improve Guinean trade, thanks to two 8,000-tonne general-purpose berths, one with a general cargo throughput capacity of 2.5 million tons, and the other with an oil product throughput capacity of 578,000 tonnes per year. This is sorely needed after the Kaloum fuel depot explosion of December 2023 decimated petroleum product storage. w
Ismael Diakite, Chief Representative of WCS and member of the Board of CTG, who also serves as Chairman of the Board of the Guinea Chamber of Mines, explains the potential of the Simandou railway and port infrastructure to strengthen trade and industrial logistics in Guinea.
‘’Railways and ports connect people to opportunities and markets. The infrastructure will create an economic corridor that will vastly improve Guinea’s trade and industrial logistics, facilitating access to markets and allowing local producers to engage in broader economic activities.’’
The coming months promise to be critical for the Simandou project, with the industrial partners targeting completion of the infrastructure and first ore in November 2025.
Marcus and Nick both work at Africa Practice, a strategic advisory firm. They have more than 40 years combined experience supporting investors, operators, and policy makers to design policies and introduce practices that foster inclusive development across the mining value chain.
Authored by Marcus Courage and Nick Branson
Marcus Courage Nick Branson
Future-Proofing African Mining Communities
Mining is a paradox. It powers economies and innovation, yet often leaves nearby communities facing environmental harm and broken promises. For Africa, rich in critical minerals essential for the global energy transition, this challenge is an opportunity to reshape mining as a force for sustainable development.
The African Mining Vision offers a blueprint for this transformation, emphasising the need to move from a “social license to operate” to a Sustainable Development License to Operate – rooted in shared prosperity, environmental stewardship, and equitable partnerships.
Empowering Communities
Traditional community engagement has fallen short, often sidelining those most affected. A new approach demands collaboration where communities and indigenous peoples are equal partners. Meaningful engagement reduces risks, fosters trust, and ensures projects deliver long-term benefits.
David SturmesVerbreek – Co-founder, Director Partnerships & Innovation The Impact Facility
Pathways to Sustainable Development
1.From Compliance to Collaboration
Adopt Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) to empower communities in shaping their futures.
2. Invest in Human Capital
Prepare communities for the future by investing in training for roles in engineering, technology, and environmental management.
3.Support Local Economies
Prioritise local sourcing, strengthen SMEs, and build infrastructure that benefits both operations and communities.
4. Plan for Post-Mining Prosperity
Reinvest revenues into education, infrastructure, and economic diversification to secure lasting benefits.
Amplifying Community Voices: A Transformative Moment at Mining Indaba 2025
Mining Indaba 2025 places the voices of mining communities and Indigenous people at the forefront of industry discussions, recognising their pivotal role in driving a sustainable and inclusive future for mining.
Be inspired by these trailblazers:
Kgomotso Mokone –Student Leader, Wits University, South Africa
“Mining must adapt to the realities of a rapidly evolving world. Investing in future-ready skills and innovation is no longer a choice – it’s an urgent necessity to keep mining as a driver of sustainable development and progress.”
“Value addition and beneficiation are essential for community upliftment. Nigeria must act now to create jobs, stimulate growth, and ensure our resources directly benefit the people.”
Faith Mutete – Founder and CEO, Women in Mining, Zimbabwe
“Inclusive decisionmaking is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. Communities must be heard, their concerns addressed, and collaboration prioritized to build trust and lasting impact.”
Sonwabo Modimoeng – Executive Lead, Faded Black Innovations, South Africa
“Empowering communities through innovation and sustainable solutions is the key to unlocking their full potential. Let’s tackle challenges head-on and create enduring opportunities – starting today.”
Kgosi T. M. Seatlholo, Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders
“Future-Proofing African Mining, Today” is more than a theme – it is a rallying cry for transformation.
The National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) stands resolutely for inclusive development that prioritises rural communities. Mining cannot continue to leave its closest stakeholders – communities – mired in poverty and strife. This must change, and it must change now.
By honouring our cultural heritage, fostering meaningful partnerships with forward-thinking stakeholders, and building an inclusive rural economy, we can ensure mining becomes a true catalyst for prosperity. Environmental sustainability, equitable benefit-sharing, and community empowerment are not optional – they are essential to securing a prosperous future for generations to come.
The time for tangible action is now. Let us commit to mining that uplifts, empowers, and transforms lives, leaving no community behind. The future of Africa depends on it.”
Empowering Tomorrow’s Mining Leaders with Bold Ideas and Visionary Voices
Get ready for an electrifying experience as MITV returns for Mining Indaba 2025, bringing you the industry’s most influential voices in thought-provoking, game-changing conversations! After a groundbreaking launch in 2024, MITV is set to ignite even more excitement and impact with a carefully curated lineup of trailblazing leaders and innovators from across the mining sector.
A glimpse of the pioneering speaker lineup:
Zenzi Awases President, Association of Women in Mining Africa
Nere Emiko Managing Director Kian Smith Company
Martina Biene Chairperson and MD, Volkswagen Group Africa
Georgette Barnes Sakyi-Addo
Women
Mining for a sustainable future: Evaluating progress in ESG initiatives by Gold and PGM miners
Ross Embleton – Mine Supply Research Analyst
The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) sector continues to evolve and gather pace as increasing public awareness drives transparency. The International Council of Mining and Metals (ICMM) recently published the Nature Positive by 2030 initiative, which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 from a 2020 baseline. The initiative stresses responsibly produced minerals and metals play a critical role in advancing global sustainable development goals. However, meeting future demands must not be at the expense of nature.
To maintain a social licence to operate, mining companies must strive to be the partner of choice in the host countries and communities in which they operate. Failure to do so could result in development delays, operational disruption or mine closure. Financial institutions are now increasingly linking loans to clear carbon reduction progress, while some governments are implementing carbon pricing and stricter environmental regulations.
Under the backdrop of rising production costs and inflationary pressures, the path towards ESG stewardship will be faced with challenges. Can gold and PGM mining companies continue to adapt and make progress towards their sustainability goals? This article outlines the current ESG trends and headwinds influencing the Gold and PGM sectors. If you would like to learn more, Metals Focus, a leading precious metals consultancy, will have its latest Gold and PGM ESG focus reports available to collect throughout the conference.
Renewable energy integration to drive scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction
Combined scope 1 and 2 emissions from gold companies analysed in our 2024 ESG Focus report fell by 5.4% y/y to 27,249 ktCO2e. Equivalent gold production decreased by 2.5% from the previous year, resulting in an average emissions intensity of 0.78 tCO2e per ounce. Eight out of fourteen companies assessed reduced their scope 1 and 2 emission intensity during the year. This was driven by the integration of renewable energy projects at mine sites, such as Gold Fields’ Gruyere solar plant.
Mine location also plays a significant role in the asset emissions profile. Agnico Eagle reported the lowest scope 1 and 2 emissions intensity of the gold miners assessed. The company benefits from access to hydroelectric power, particularly at its Canadian operations. However, South African operations typically have a greater reliance on Eskom’s coal-fired power. Combined scope 1 and 2 emissions in the PGM industry remained flat y/y at 22,818 ktCO2e, despite efforts from companies to address their emission profile. New legislation introduced in South Africa allows mining companies to use self-generated power and a string of renewable energy projects are already underway.
Declining head grades challenge energy consumption
The primary factor influencing energy consumption at a mine site is often the processing method used. Ore grinding is usually the most energyintensive component, particularly when dealing with refractory ores. The average energy intensity of gold production increased by 43% over the past nine years, reaching 9.3 PJ/oz in 2023, up 3% y/y. This can be accounted for by the ongoing challenges with processing lower-grade ores.
Barrick is the largest consumer of energy from companies covered in our Gold ESG Focus report. This reflects the energy-intensive nature of processing refractive ore at Nevada Gold Mines and declining ore grades at Pueblo Viejo.
Conversely, energy intensity from PGM miners covered in our report has trended downwards since 2015, to 17.1 GJ/oz in 2023. This was largely driven by merger and acquisition activity, in addition to changes in their production base composition. For example, Northam reduced its energy intensity by increasing production at its less energy-intensive, shallower Booysendal orebody.
Contrasting approaches to community investment from Gold and PGM mining
Mining companies make substantial contributions to the socio-economic development of their host communities via payments to government, local procurement and community investment. In 2023, the rising gold price led to higher royalties and income tax, increasing payments to governments by 12% y/y to $9.1Bn. However, higher costs and inflationary pressures restricted growth in operating margins. This contributed to a 16% y/y fall in community development spending, with eight of the assessed companies reporting lower year-on-year expenditure.
In the PGM industry, a significant decline in the basket price and lower production created a difficult operating environment in 2023. Community development spending decreased 35% y/y to $348m; however, this was due to Nornickel halving its expenditure. South African companies are required to develop and implement socio-economic plans to retain their licence to operate and all South African producers increased their contribution in 2023.
