JCI Mining

AT THE

COAL

FACE OF CHANGE

AT THE

COAL

FACE OF CHANGE

As it navigates an increasingly complex mining landscape, JCI Mining’s recent digital transformation and long-standing people-focused culture have enabled it to stand out as a mining company with a difference. Matthew Abraham, Managing Director, outlines the company’s drive to create both efficiency and long-term value Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Josh Whiteside

R

ichly endowed with a plethora of precious mineral commodities, the mining industry in South Africa (SA) continues to positively influence the national economy.

This is particularly true when it comes to creating employment and supporting regional development.

However, with recent commodity volatility, the sector is not without its challenges.

“Speaking from a contract mining 2 | Africa Outlook Issue 119

perspective, the sector has become a lot more complex to navigate of late,” adds Matthew Abraham, Managing Director of JCI Mining (JCI).

At the same time, cost pressures persist, whilst expectations around sustainability and responsible mining have increased significantly.

“This has become a very real part of our industry, particularly over the last 10 to 20 years,” he outlines.

As such, due to the sustained pressures and costs that come with making

such a transition, success in today’s mining landscape comes down to efficiency, adaptability, and discipline.

Indeed, companies that can adapt quickly, manage costs, and maintain strong safety standards will be those that succeed going forwards.

JCI has therefore built a resilient business that can perform consistently in changing conditions.

“It’s a very fluid industry, and our focus on creating long-term value has set us apart – not just for our

JCI MINING MINING

clients and employees, but also the communities we operate in,” Abraham points out.

TWO DECADES OF SUCCESS Established in 2007, JCI is approaching 20 years in the industry.

With a wide client base – from junior mining houses to larger corporations – the company’s focus is on thermal coal and hard coking coal.

“Our main footprint is predominantly in Mpumalanga, as well

as operations in Limpopo, supported by just under 1,500 staff including subcontractors,” Abraham insights.

One of JCI’s biggest operations is currently a hard coking coal project in Limpopo, which commenced in June 2025.

Strategically, the company is also looking to diversify into other areas, drawing on its leadership team’s experience across multiple commodities.

“So far, we’ve mainly expanded within coal, but as SA is blessed

with rich resources – from gold to platinum, manganese, and iron ore – diversification is a key objective for us going forwards,” he reveals.

Although its current focus is on building its capabilities beyond coal within SA, JCI is also keen to consider cross-border opportunities in the long term.

Driven by a combination of strong company culture, experienced teams, and disciplined execution, JCI stands out.

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JCI MINING MINING

“JCI is implementing Tectra Telematics to improve visibility across load and haul operations. The system provides real-time data on cycle times, equipment use, and production, helping teams make faster decisions, reduce idle time, and improve fleet performance” – M AT T H E W A B R A H A M , M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , J C I M I N I N G

The company also places great emphasis on accountability and collaboration with both its internal and external stakeholders, placing safety at the centre as a nonnegotiable foundation.

“We do the basics consistently well – planning, communication, maintenance, and operational control.

When those elements are aligned, the results follow,” Abraham affirms.

Having also recently developed fit-for-purpose operating models for various clients, JCI is recognised for its understanding of unique project complexities.

“Not every project requires the same set-up. The flexibility awarded by our fit-for-purpose 4 | Africa Outlook Issue 119

operating models allows us to remain agile whilst maintaining strong governance,” he tells us.

Ultimately, people are JCI’s greatest assets, with various training and development programmes in place.

“We’ve focused heavily on developing from within and creating clear pathways for growth, which has helped us build a strong team and retain talent.”

CROSS-COMPANY CONNECTIVITY Committed to remaining ahead of the curve when it comes to new and emerging technologies, JCI recently made the decision to implement Sage X3, a comprehensive enterprise

resource planning (ERP) software solution.

“Our older systems were functional, but we weren’t keeping up with the times,” Abraham admits.

Implementing the Sage X3 ERP system has been a transformational step for JCI, fundamentally changing how the company manages operations, data, and decision-making.

Previously, a lot of its processes – procurement, financial tracking, and inventory – were Microsoft Excel-driven and therefore quite fragmented, which meant limited visibility and more reactive decision-making.

With Sage X3 in place, the company now operates on a single source of

truth, with data that is more accurate and accessible across the business.

“Operationally, we’ve gained much better control over stock and costtracking, which allows us to respond faster and make more informed decisions in real-time,” he shares.

Elsewhere, JCI has implemented Pragma’s On Key enterprise asset management (EAM) system, which aligns maintenance planning with financial and supply chain data, enabling a more seamless flow of information and supporting predictive maintenance.

“The transition had its challenges, but we’re now really seeing the benefits. It’s also positioned us well for future growth – it’s scalable,

“So far, we’ve mainly expanded within coal, but as SA is blessed with rich resources – from gold to platinum, manganese, and iron ore – diversification is a key objective for us going forwards” – M AT T H E W A B R A H A M , M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , J C I M I N I N G

supports analytics, and enables artificial intelligence (AI) integration,” Abraham reflects.

In terms of the company’s broader digital transformation, it has also rolled out Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling staff to automate and streamline processes and interact with data generated from Sage X3 more effectively.

One of the biggest benefits

afforded has been how JCI now captures, processes, and uses information, reducing the need for manual intervention and making data more accessible and actionable.

“Our operations run 24/7, so having real-time insight is critical. Previously, we might only see reports the next day – now, we can act immediately,” he adds.

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JCI MINING MINING

Microsoft 365 Copilot also automates routine tasks like reporting and document generations, freeing up JCI’s teams to focus on analysis and decision-making.

Abraham is keen to point out, however, that the use of Microsoft 365 Copilot is not just about automation, but cross-company connectivity.

“It’s building a connected, datadriven organisation that supports

6 | Africa Outlook Issue 119

efficiency and cost control,” he emphasises.

TALENT FROM WITHIN Set apart by its people-focused culture, JCI is proud of its ability to combine agility with discipline.

“As a privately owned company, we have a relatively lean structure which allows us to respond quickly to clients’ needs and changing market

conditions,” Abraham sets out.

At the same time, it maintains strong governance and operational controls, with a consistent focus on safety.

“There’s a strong reputational element in this industry, and the culture we’ve built here at JCI has enabled us to form long-term partnerships based on trust and reliability,” he smiles.

Minimising downtime through quality and proactive support In mining, every minute of unplanned downtime has a direct impact on production and cost efficiency. Probe IMT supports business critical continuity at JCI Mining by supplying top tier Tudor industrial batteries and OEM approved automotive and auto electrical components engineered for harsh mining environments.

Beyond supply, Probe IMT offers proactive field services and on site support. Through the use of digital diagnostic tools and predictive maintenance platforms, potential failures can be identified early, ensuring optimal battery performance and extended asset life while maximising equipment availability.

“Our focus is not only on component quality, but on ensuring uptime and long term asset value,” Roselt explains.

Enabling digital mines through resilient connectivity Real time data and robust communications are fundamental to modern mining safety and productivity. At JCI Mining’s MC Mining operation in Limpopo, Probe IMT is collaborating with Red Line Infrastructure to implement resilient Rajant Kinetic Mesh private 5G networks.

Gert Roselt, CEO of Probe IMT

Probe IMT solutions drive productivity, safety and uptime at JCI Mining

P

robe IMT is a trusted provider of integrated productivity, safety and digital solutions for the mining industry across Southern Africa. By partnering with global technology leaders and aligning innovations to site specific realities, Probe IMT enables mining operations to improve safety outcomes, reduce downtime and unlock measurable productivity gains.

Probe IMT’s technical solutions span real time monitoring and collision avoidance systems, fleet and asset management technologies, industrial batteries and auto electrical solutions, as well as HVAC, cabin filtration and operator safety systems.

Delivered as integrated solutions rather than standalone products, these technologies address critical safety, operational and compliance challenges faced by modern mining operations.

The partnership between Probe IMT and JCI Mining was initiated in 2021 with the supply of premium industrial batteries. Since then, the relationship has matured into a formalised, group wide engagement. Today, Probe IMT supports JCI Mining through a group supply agreement covering a broad range of critical industrial batteries and auto electrical components across multiple operations. “This progression reflects the tangible value delivered through targeted, operationally focused support,” says Gert Roselt, CEO of Probe IMT.

This advanced connectivity framework establishes a reliable communications grid across operational areas, enabling seamless data flow and eliminating operational blind spots.

The network forms the foundation for advanced digital solutions, including M3SH Technology real time sensors that support data driven decision making, enhanced situational awareness and improved safety outcomes.

Delivering integrated, future ready mining solutions The solutions deployed at JCI Mining represent only a portion of Probe IMT’s wider capabilities. What differentiates Probe IMT is its ability to integrate multiple technologies into cohesive, intelligent mining systems — from technical design and professional installation to ongoing site support, predictive maintenance and skills transfer.

“Leading mining organisations recognise that sustainable gains require more than incremental improvement,” says Roselt. “At Probe IMT, we partner with clients to fundamentally transform how operations are conducted, delivering safer, more productive and future ready mines. We are proud to partner with JCI Mining and look forward to continued shared success.”

For more information, visit www.probeimt.co.za or contact the Probe IMT team at: +27 (0)10 634 5605 | +27 (0)86 045 3789 Probe IMT operates branches across Sub-Saharan Africa with value added partners across the continent.

JCI’S SERVICES – AT A GLANCE JCI offers a comprehensive, end-to-end suite of mining services tailored to sitespecific requirements, including: • LOAD AND HAUL – Flexible fleet supporting a range of materials and largescale production volumes.

• MATERIALS HANDLING – Tailored solutions using loaders, articulated dump trucks, tippers, or road haulers.

• DEWATERING – Comprehensive systems for varied site conditions.

• DRILLING AND BLASTING – Full-service offering, including planning, design, execution, and monitoring.

• PLANT HIRE – Extensive equipment fleet available with strong mechanical support.

• MINE PLANNING – Value-added services covering planning and scheduling.

• SLURRY POND CLEANING – Pumping or load and haul methods depending on site conditions.

• REHABILITATION – Proven experience in delivering rehabilitation projects.

• CRUSHING AND SCREENING – Mobile solutions customised to client requirements.

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In this way, the company’s relationships with both local suppliers and surrounding communities are deeply important.

“Local suppliers support both our operations and regional economic growth,” Abraham highlights.

JCI prioritises working with local businesses where possible and also maintains a focus on job creation and skills development.

In many cases, the company has trained staff from the local area who have had no prior mining experience.

“It’s all about contributing to sustainable economic activity beyond the mine itself,” he adds.

Indeed, investing in its workforce is a central focus for JCI, with structured training, mentorship, and development programmes in place where employees can progress if they meet certain milestones.

“Building talent from within has been very successful for us – we’ve

JCI MINING MINING

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“Operationally, we’ve gained much better control over stock and cost-tracking, which allows us to respond faster and make more informed decisions in real-time” – M AT T H E W A B R A H A M , M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , J C I M I N I N G

seen people grow from equipment operators to management roles,” Abraham fondly remembers.

MORE THAN A TICK BOX As it anticipates the future, JCI’s milestone hard coking coal project in Limpopo remains a key focus.

“It could become one of the largest projects of its kind in SA, with both local and export potential,” Abraham remarks.

This project not only demonstrates JCI’s ability to mobilise efficiently and meet key targets with the first coal

produced on time, but it’s also scalable and has strong growth potential, which makes it particularly exciting.

Elsewhere, the company is continuing to explore opportunities in other commodities whilst maintaining existing operations.

Projects aside, what really matters to JCI going forwards is investing in the communities around it – something Abraham feels very strongly about.

“We make a deliberate effort to contribute to these communities.

Beyond just the economic side, we

focus on youth development – from education to bursaries and supporting at-risk children,” he prides.

JCI is also heavily involved in supporting youth sports, which it sees as a strong unifying force amongst communities.

“In short, our approach to community is practical. We want to make a real, tangible difference – not just tick a box,” Abraham boldly concludes.

Tel: (013) 246 1826 info@jcimining.co.za

www.jcimining.co.za

Africa Outlook Issue 119 | 9

Tel: (013) 246 1826 info@jcimining.co.za

www.jcimining.co.za

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