African Mining Brief - Dec 2023 by Africanminingbrief

October - December 2023, Volume 18 No.4

Inside... ● Reshaping the landscape of excavation ● Cutting edge pumps and valves ● Recycled polymer bearing

IN THIS ISSUE

October - December 2023, Volume 18 No.4

Contents October - December, Volume 18 No 4

News 02 Inside... ● Reshaping the landscape of excavation ● Cutting edge pumps and valves ● Recycled polymer bearing

Pumps, Valves and Services EDITOR Dennis Ayemba EAST AFRICA EDITOR Francis Makari

Revolutionising the Mining Industry Through Cutting-Edge Pumps, Valves, and Services

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGN Augustine Ombwa austin@arobia.co.ke COUNTRY WRITER: Lindsay Wagner WRITERS: Delilah Aisu, Matimu Mahundla COUNTRY LIAISON Thuthukile Klaas ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES South Africa: Shepherd Mthethwa, Rachel Molapo Jacqui Nyangabyaki, Tshegofatso Mokonyama, Thabiso Shosha Nigeria: Seni Bello East Africa: William Mutama

Published by Mining & Construction News Network (Pty) Ltd (MCN Network) African Mining Brief is published 4(four) times a year and is circulated to members of relevant associations, governmental bodies and other personnel in the mining industry as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services in Africa, the Middle and Far East. The editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Material may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in the journal. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. © All rights reserved.

Excavator Attachments - Paving the Way Forward for Miners

Tough recycled polymer bearing 08

ABB industry-first automated robot charger 09 ABB, Boliden and LKAB complete successful testing of industry-first automated robot charger for increased safety in underground mines

NAMLUB celebrates 20th

Africa’s mineral wealth emerges as key theatre in race to achieve decarbonization

inancing new mines has always been a risky business; from long project timelines, to price volatility, navigating political conditions and ESG risks. Though the continent boasts as much as 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, as of last year it accounted for less than 10% of global mining exploration spending, and less than 5% of the sector’s global revenue. However, mining projects across the continent are now benefiting from a change driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, acceleration of the energy transition and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Critical minerals and the mining sector have now become part of energy security policies across the continents. Industries ravaged by supply chain disruptions and ESG pressures also seek their own security; directly investing in or partnering with miners to secure supply. The mining sector has traditionally not been associated with green financing, given the historic ESG issues associated with many mining operations, but acknowledgment of the crucial role the sector has to play in the energy transition is changing this dynamic. Funding that has traditionally flowed into African oil & gas projects is now being redirected into mining, as funders adapt their portfolios in response to the energy transition.

Dennis Ayemba

anniversary as an official FUCHS Namibia distributor

Editor’s word

Regional Offices South Africa MCN Network (Pty) Ltd 14 Ballyclare Dr, Bryanston,Sandton,2191 +27 (0)11 875 4328 E-mail: info@mcnnetwork.co.za

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NEWS

Project

News

Energy

Duferco, Vedanta Fund Long-Term Project into Novel Zinc Refining Process

Steenkampskraal Sets Out Rare Earth Production Timelines

Unleashing Uganda’s Energy and Mineral Potential: A Vision for Sustainable Development

uferco Steel Processing and Vedanta South Africa continue to fund a long-term research project at the University of Cape Town (UCT) supervised by Professor Jochen Petersen and his chemical engineering team. “Congratulations to the companies for their great foresight to provide the funding to get the novel green low-power mini zinc refining project into action,” notes Simon Norton, Executive Director of the International Zinc Association (IZA) Africa. “The main idea is to fire up novel chemical engineering research in South Africa and use local postgraduate students to challenge them with the zinc project. “The project clearly shows that South Africa must spend far more on fundamental research and lure internationally recognised researchers to lead programmes here,” says Norton. The project is looking to use ammonia as a leaching agent to remove non-ferrous metals contained in South African zincrich mineral ores. Ammonia is being used in the research because it is low cost, has low toxicity, and can be regenerated in the process operation. “The other key reason for using ammonia is the fact that, in an alkaline solution, the process does not dissolve iron, a critical impurity that complicates zinc recovery from ore concentrates,” explains Professor Petersen.

I S

peaking at the Critical Minerals Africa Conference in Cape Town, Graham Soden, the Director, CEO and Mine Manager of Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine, outlined the mine’s planned development strategy to December 2027 to bring the mine into production. The strategy covers producing monazite concentrate with the construction of a monazite concentration plant, followed by the construction of a cracking plant to produce mixed rare earth (RE) carbonate and thorium. This will be followed by the construction of a separation plant to produce mixed RE oxides. To date, Mr Soden said about R1 billion has been invested in the mine’s infrastructure. “The first phase of three phases will involve the mobilisation of the mining and processing plant and equipment to the site, refurbishment of the decline and shaft area, and re-equipping the headgear and infrastructure. Material and loose ore from underground will be reclaimed followed by the construction of the monazite concentration plant and commencement of underground mining. The first monazite concentrate is expected to be produced by December 2024,” he said.

Technology Orica Expands Digital Capability with Underground Blast Performance Technology

eveloped by Orica Digital Solutions BlastIQ™ Underground provides quality control and improved drill and blast productivity for superior blast outcomes. Enabling underground operations to efficiently manage their blasting process, from planning to post-blast analysis, with userfriendly reporting, analytics, and information management. The innovative and integrated suite of technologies improves blast productivity with the digital communication of blast designs, including the re-application of charging designs in response to hole locations. The digital collection and management of drilling data empower engineers to identify opportunities for continuous improvement of drilling and charging operations. Orica Vice President Digital Solutions Rajkumar Mathiravedu said “Orica is continually growing its digital offerings for customers to align with the swift digital transformation across the industry.” “Our software ensures that every blast is executed precisely, and the desired outcomes are achieved. This level of accuracy translates into significant cost savings and improved resource utilisation for our customers. To better cater to our customers, we are amassing a digital technology portfolio that complements our core blasting technologies such as 4D Underground, WebGen, and Avatel”.

n the heart of the captivating Trans Africa Investment Summit, held from 9-11 November 2023 in Entebbe, Uganda, an unwavering commitment to the future of energy and mineral development echoed through the corridors of high-profile discussions. The summit, themed “Destination Africa: Fostering Development Collaboration between Africa and the Diaspora,” not only provided a dynamic platform for collaboration but showcased Uganda’s visionary strides in harnessing its abundant resources for socio-economic development. The summit’s kickoff was marked by expressions of gratitude to the hosts, Honorable Professor Robinah K Nanunja, the President of Trans Africa Investment. Mr Sskitoleko Simon Peter, the Assistant Commissioner, and the Chair of the Renewable Energy Council, wore three hats, as he represented the Ministry of Energy and Renewable Development, championed renewable energy causes, and represented, Honorable Dr. Ruth Nakaniwa Sentamu, the Minister of Energy and Renewable Development in Uganda. Uganda’s Unique Position: A Hub of Opportunities The focus on entrepreneurs and SMEs as the driving force for Africa’s economic growth set the tone for Uganda’s unique position in the region. Uganda’s strategic location and abundant natural resources, from oil and gas to gold, iron ore, and rare earth minerals, place it at the forefront of Africa’s development. The emphasis on leveraging the demographic dividend for sustainable socio-economic development underscores the commitment to responsible resource utilization. October - December 2023

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Pumps, Valves and Services

Revolutionising the Mining Industry Through Cutting-Edge Pumps, Valves, and Services

n the ever-evolving landscape of the mining industry, technological advancements have become the cornerstone of progress. Pumps, valves, and associated services, once considered mere components of the machinery, are now the unsung heroes orchestrating a transformative symphony deep within the earth’s crust. The heart of innovation, exploring the ways in which these essential elements are reshaping the mining industry and paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future continue to evolve with boundless options and opportunities. The Evolution of Pump Technology Pumps, the lifeblood of mining operations, have undergone a remarkable

transformation in recent years. Traditional pump systems, while effective, often face challenges such as inefficiency and high energy consumption. The industry has responded with a wave of innovations, ushering in a new era of pump technology. One notable breakthrough is the advent of smart pumps equipped with cutting-edge sensors and automation capabilities. These intelligent pumps not only optimize the extraction process but also provide real-time data on performance and potential issues. This proactive approach to maintenance minimizes downtime and maximizes operational efficiency, a crucial factor in an industry where every second counts. Furthermore, the integration of digital twins—virtual replicas of physical

pump systems—allows for predictive maintenance, enabling miners to address potential malfunctions before they escalate. This not only reduces costs associated with unscheduled downtime but also enhances overall safety measures in the often hazardous mining environment. Valve Innovations: Precision in Motion In tandem with pump advancements, valves play a pivotal role in regulating the flow of materials within the mining infrastructure. Traditionally seen as simple control mechanisms, valves have undergone a technological metamorphosis, emerging as precision instruments that significantly contribute to the industry’s efficiency and sustainability. One of the notable developments in valve technology is the rise of control valves equipped with advanced sensor networks. These sensors enable real-time monitoring of variables such as pressure, temperature, and flow rates, allowing for precise control and optimization of the extraction process. This level of accuracy not only enhances operational efficiency but also minimizes waste and environmental impact. Additionally, the incorporation of smart valves into mining systems has facilitated remote monitoring and control. This innovation enables mining operators to adjust valve settings and respond to changing conditions without the need for on-site intervention, thereby reducing human exposure to potentially hazardous environments. Services Redefined: The Human Touch in a Digital Age As technology continues to redefine the mining landscape, the importance of comprehensive services cannot be overstated. Beyond the machinery, skilled professionals and tailored services are the backbone of a thriving mining operation. In this era of digital transformation, mining services have evolved to encompass a wide array of capabilities, combining traditional expertise with cutting-edge technologies. Remote diagnostics and monitoring services have become integral components of October - December 2023

modern mining support. Mining companies can now leverage the expertise of service providers who utilize advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to remotely assess equipment health, troubleshoot issues, and recommend preventive measures. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to a safer working environment by minimizing the need for onsite interventions. Moreover, the rise of cloud-based platforms for data storage and analysis has streamlined communication and collaboration between mining operators and service providers. This digital ecosystem allows for seamless sharing of information, ensuring that insights gained from one operation can benefit the industry as a whole. Sustainability at the Core In the wake of growing environmental concerns, the mining industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. Pumps, valves, and associated services are at the forefront of this paradigm shift, playing a pivotal role in minimizing the industry’s ecological footprint.

Energy efficiency has become a focal point in pump and valve design. With advancements in materials and engineering, manufacturers are developing components that not only withstand the harsh conditions of mining operations but also operate with reduced energy consumption. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into pump and valve systems further contributes to the industry’s sustainability goals. In the realm of services, sustainability is not merely a buzzword but a guiding principle. Mining service providers are actively investing in technologies that promote responsible resource management, waste reduction, and environmental conservation. The implementation of circular economy principles, where materials are reused and recycled, is becoming increasingly prevalent in the services offered to mining operations. The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities While the strides made in pump, valve, and service technologies are commendable, challenges remain on the horizon. The transition to more advanced systems

requires substantial investments, and not all mining operations may have the resources to adopt these technologies immediately. Additionally, there are concerns about the cybersecurity of interconnected systems and the need for robust measures to protect sensitive data from potential threats. However, these challenges also present opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Industry stakeholders, including mining companies, equipment manufacturers, and service providers, can work together to develop cost-effective solutions and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are accessible across the board. As we stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation in the mining industry, the role of pumps, valves, and associated services has never been more crucial. The transformative power of these elements is not just reshaping the way resources are extracted from the earth but is also laying the foundation for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. With each pump’s pulse and each valve’s precision, the mining industry is forging ahead into a new era of efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility.

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October - December 2023

Excavator Attachments - Paving the Way Forward for Miners

n the dynamic realm of mining, where operational efficiency and precision are paramount, excavator attachments have emerged as beneficial, reshaping the landscape of extraction and processing. Among these transformative attachments, hydraulic hammers and secondary crushers, among other cutting-edge attachments, have become indispensable tools and have proven indispensable in the hands of miners, propelling the industry towards unprecedented levels of productivity and sustainability. Their cutting-edge capabilities not only enhance productivity but also drive the industry toward uncharted realms of sustainability. These attachments, often overlooked, play a pivotal role in the mining narrative, embodying a commitment to a future where precision, efficiency, and environmental responsibility coalesce to redefine the standards of excellence in the field. The Evolution of Excavator Attachments The mining industry has witnessed a remarkable evolution in the design and functionality of excavator attachments. Traditionally, excavation and material

processing were labour-intensive tasks, characterized by inefficiencies and safety concerns. However, the advent of hydraulic hammers and secondary crushers has marked a paradigm shift, streamlining operations and redefining industry standards. Hydraulic Hammers: Breaking New Ground At the forefront of this revolution are hydraulic hammers, the heavy-duty giants that have become synonymous with precision and power in mining operations. These attachments, powered by hydraulic systems, deliver controlled and forceful blows to break down rocks and concrete with unparalleled efficiency. One of the key advantages of hydraulic hammers is their adaptability to diverse geological conditions. Whether it’s hard rock or concrete, these attachments can be fine-tuned to deliver the precise amount of force required, minimizing collateral damage and reducing operational costs. The versatility of hydraulic hammers makes them indispensable in tasks ranging from primary rock breaking to tunnelling and demolition.

Furthermore, advancements in hydraulic hammer technology have led to increased durability and reduced maintenance requirements. Modern designs incorporate innovative features such as energy recovery systems and enhanced shock absorption, ensuring a longer lifespan and minimizing downtime. This not only boosts productivity but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective mining operation. In tandem with hydraulic hammers, secondary crushers have emerged as crucial components in the mining process, addressing the challenges posed by oversized rocks and further refining extracted materials. These crushers come in various forms, including cone crushers, impact crushers, and jaw crushers, each catering to specific mining requirements. Cone crushers, for instance, excel in secondary and tertiary crushing applications, producing finely crushed materials that are essential for downstream processes. The versatility of cone crushers makes them ideal for a wide range of tasks, from aggregate production to mineral processing. Impact crushers, on the other hand, are designed to deliver high-speed impacts to break down materials, making them October - December 2023

particularly effective in applications where cubicity and the production of a wellgraded end product are paramount. Their adaptability to various feed sizes and material types has made them indispensable in the mining industry. Jaw crushers, the workhorses of material reduction, play a pivotal role in primary crushing operations. Their robust design and ability to handle high capacities make them the go-to choice for extracting minerals from the earth efficiently. Advances in jaw crusher technology have led to improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements, contributing to a more sustainable mining practice. Synergy in Action: Hydraulic Hammers and Secondary Crushers The seamless integration of hydraulic hammers and secondary crushers is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between these excavator attachments. In a typical mining scenario, hydraulic hammers are employed to break down large rocks into manageable sizes, creating a feed for secondary crushers. This synergy ensures a continuous and efficient material flow through the mining process. The precise control offered by hydraulic hammers in breaking down rocks ensures that the input to secondary crushers

is uniform, optimizing their performance and extending their lifespan. The result is a harmonious workflow that maximizes productivity and minimizes waste. Environmental and Safety Considerations Beyond their undeniable impact on efficiency and productivity, excavator attachments are also playing a pivotal role in addressing environmental and safety concerns within the mining industry. Reduction in Dust Emissions: The controlled and precise nature of hydraulic hammers and secondary crushers significantly reduces the generation of dust, a common environmental challenge in mining operations. This not only enhances the working conditions for miners but also mitigates the environmental impact on surrounding ecosystems. Noise Reduction: Traditional mining operations were often accompanied by deafening noise levels, posing risks to the health and safety of workers. The advancements in excavator attachment technology, particularly in hydraulic hammers and crushers, have led to quieter and more operator-friendly equipment, fostering a safer working environment.

Precision in Material Processing: The precision offered by modern excavator attachments minimizes over-blasting and unnecessary damage to surrounding rock formations. This not only conserves valuable resources but also ensures a more responsible and sustainable approach to mining. As the mining industry continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability, excavator attachments have emerged as the silent architects of this transformation. Hydraulic hammers and secondary crushers, among other attachments, are redefining the standards of efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility in mining operations. The journey from labour-intensive methods to the precision and adaptability of modern excavator attachments represents a significant leap forward. It is not merely a technological evolution but a commitment to a more sustainable and responsible future for the mining industry. As these unseen heroes continue to pave the way forward, their impact will resonate not only in the efficiency of operations but also in the environmental stewardship and safety of those on the front lines of mining exploration and extraction.

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Tough recycled polymer bearing

Super-tough chemical resistant bearing from recycled plastic

otion plastics specialist igus has introduced a new plain bearing made from recycled plastic. The bearing, iglide ECO P210, is a chemicalresistant variant that has been added to the company’s iglide ECO series. The iglide ECO series is manufactured using regranulate made from the sprue and defective injection-moulded parts produced by igus. This allows the company to recycle plastic waste and reduce the amount of virgin plastic used in production. The new iglide ECO P210 plain bearing has been designed for use in machines that regularly come into contact with chemicals. Potential applications include agitators, laboratory mills, filtration devices, and car washes. The bearing has a maximum recommended surface pressure of 50MPa at room temperature and can operate between -40°C (-40°F) and 100°C (212°F). Like

all igus plain bearing materials, it does not require external lubrication with oil or grease. Commenting on the development, South Africa’s product manager responsible for bearings, Juan-Eric Davidtz adds, “Our in-house laboratory tests show that plain bearings made of regranulate provide almost the same performance as the conventional iglidur P210 series. They are similarly resistant to edge pressure, shocks and impacts with only slight concessions.” The ECO P210 is the fifth product in the iglide ECO family. Other materials available include ECO H, ECO P, ECO G, and ECO A180. According to igus, all ECO materials consist of at least 97 percent recycled plastic. The ECO series development is part of the igus sustainability strategy. Among other things, igus shows the CO2 footprint of best-selling iglide materials. This enables

customers to compare and select the bearing with the lowest CO2 footprint. igus is striving to transform the classic linear plastics economy into a sustainable circular economy. To this end, it not only recycles but also invests in innovative technologies, such as those from Mura Technology, a British company developing a process to turn plastic back into crude oil using only water, high temperatures, and pressure. Igus South Africa, Ian Hewat, managing director, Tel: (011) 312 1848, Fax: (011) 312 1594, Email: ihewat@igus.net, Web: www. igus.co.za October - December 2023

ABB industry-first automated robot charger

ABB, Boliden and LKAB complete successful testing of industry-first automated robot charger for increased safety in underground mines

BB has successfully completed testing of the industry-first automated robot charging technology for underground mines in partnership with mine operators Boliden and LKAB. The goal is to make mines safer by automating one of few manual processes left in mining: charging the blasting holes with explosives.

Blasting schedules in underground mines can vary, but the process takes place up to 15 times per day in larger mines as miners expand the chambers to extract mineral and metal ores. ABB Robot Charger automatically detects boreholes and fills them with charges without the presence of humans, removing the need for people to be near the unsupported rock face during

blasting sequences. The completed testing phase confirms the effectiveness of integrating the robot charger with a carrier vehicle, communication with bulk emulsion and vision systems and incorporation of a second robot arm to assemble prime and detonator. It ensures full reach to all borehole levels and areas of the rock face and remote control for operators.

October - December 2023

ABB industry-first automated robot charger

The program has been undertaken at Boliden Garpenberg, which is the world’s most productive underground zinc mine and is located 180 kilometres northwest of Stockholm. ABB is now embarking on the final stage of development that aims to execute the full blasting sequence in the underground mine with full control of the robot handed over to the customer. ABB is also starting discussions with other mine operators to eventually join the co-development project, so that the technology can be tested in

different mine environments and in regions beyond Northern Europe with varying climate and rock composition. “This is a significant technology development for ABB and the wider industry where safety is part of overall ESG commitments,” said Vedrana Spudic, Head of Technology, Business Line Mining, ABB. “The robot locates the drilled holes on the rock face using a vision system, and these recent tests show all can be reached and charged with the cycle fully automated. This removes the need for human operators in a

small, unsupported area right at the face.” ABB developed the robot charger technology with vision systems and automation solutions to communicate with the truck, crane and ABB industrial robotic arm. The solution can be retrofitted to any truck. ABB draws on 130 years of experience in the mining industry and is a pioneer in the integration of electrification, automation and digitalization in mining.

October - December 2023

NAMLUB 20th Anniversary

NAMLUB celebrates 20th anniversary as an official FUCHS Namibia distributor

From-left-mp-pretorious-sonja-pretorius-bernard-prestorious-matthisa-erhard-and-giles-cutter

amily owned and run Namibia Lubricants (NAMLUB) of Windhoek, now into its second generation, is celebrating its 20th year as the official FUCHS distributor in that country. Established in 2003, the distributor has shown year-onyear growth ever since. Due to its strong presence in the automotive, mining, and general industrial segments, the distributor has allowed FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTHERN AFRICA to comfortably secure a 15% to 20% share of the Namibian market. “NAMLUB was the second export market ever for us,” notes Business Development Manager Mat-thias Erhard. “It has grown steadily in terms of business, volume, and turnover, so is quite an important partner for us.” Namibia is a developing country with a mixed economy that is heavily dependent on the mining industry. It is the fourth-largest exporter of non-fuel minerals in Africa and the world’s fourth-largest producer of uranium. The mining sector accounts for 20% of GDP and the majority of exports. Other key industries are agricul-ture, fishing, and tourism. Looking at the broader Southern African region, FUCHS Export Divisional Manager Giles Cutter says the lubri-cant manufacturer has maintained a steady 15% to 20% market share in countries like Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and Zambia. “We have established key markets in countries that do not have massive growth expectations like South Africa. Our in-

Giles Cutter export divisional manager at Fuchs Lubricants South Africa

Cutter explains that this depends on the country and the market. Traditionally, when FUCHS’ regional presence was still embryonic, it would locate a trustworthy local partner that it could grow with and support over the years. “It does take a long time, finding a company we can nurture and that will grow in tandem with our own expectations,” adds Cutter. Prerequisites for distributorship include a significant local market penetration and preferably experience in the lubricants’ industry, although this is not mandatory. While distributors remain fully independent, FUCHS provides technical training, assists with advertising and marketing, and also conducts in-country and customer visits. Commenting on the second-phase expansion of the Isando facility, Cutter says the main benefit will be the addition of loadcells and the capability for bulk filling, which will allow FUCHS to fulfil a once-off 30 00 litre order for major mining customers, for example. As for the future, Erhard is convinced that the 20th anniversary is one of many more milestones to come in NAMLUB’s longstanding partnership with FUCHS. “It is a relationship that has been built up over a couple of decades now, and which reflects the loyalty, dedication, and hard work of the owners over the years,” he highlights.

October - December 2023

country presence in Southern Africa is to offer assistance and establish a strategic foothold for other areas.” Cutter says this is mainly focused on East and West Africa, where FUCHS is aiming for a minimum 10% growth as part of its regional expansion strategy. “While we will grow from a low base when we consolidate our presence there, it is a region that offers tremendous potential.” A key factor making NAMLUB the perfect partner for FUCHS is the roughly two-day-plus shipping time be-tween the main Isando blending plant and warehouse in Isando, Johannesburg and Windhoek. The distribu-tor itself has an extensive network of about seven depots that it deploys to service diverse customers and industries. In terms of appointing distributors,

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African Mining Brief

COMMITTED TO LEADING FOR GROWTH, SERVICE AND PARTNERSHIPS IN THE MINING AND MINERALS SECTOR The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) that facilitates skills development training in terms of the Skills Development Act 97 of 1998, under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The following six strategic priorities adopted by the MQA Board continue to underpin our role in promoting skills development in the sector:

For more information, please contact the Mining Qualifications Authority: 011 547 2600 www.mqa.org.za info@mqa.org.za

Through our partnerships with various stakeholders, we are tasked to upskill mine communities, unemployed youth, and artisanal miners, in line with the national government imperatives of alleviating unemployment, poverty and inequality. In the implementation of the various learning programmes in the mining and minerals sector, we continue on our drive to ensure the mining and minerals sector has sufficient competent people who will improve health and safety, employment equity and increase productivity.

African

o Promote efficient and effective governance and administration. o Improve skills development planning and decision-making through research. o Promote work-based skills development to support transformation in the mining and minerals sector. o Facilitate access to occupationally directed learning programmes for the unemployed. o Support mine community training initiatives to access economic opportunities. o Ensure the delivery of quality learning programmes in the mining and minerals sector.

With two consecutive clean audit reports received from the Auditor-General South Africa, for the financial years 20212022 and 2022-2023, we continue to lead for growth by administering several skills development initiatives including learnerships, skills programmes, internship programmes, work experience, bursaries for employed and unemployed learners.

May - June 2020, Volume 15 No.3

We support mine health and safety for the mining and minerals sector in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996, under the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).