Communities

Impact of Mining on the Community

Shared value in action

Building on the foundations set at MI26, MI27 focuses on translating commitment into measurable outcomes for host communities. By strengthening collaboration between communities, mining companies and governments, Mining Indaba emphasises practical approaches that deliver skills development, local employment, resilient livelihoods and inclusive participation in decision making. This pillar highlights the necessity for communities to play an active role in helping shape mining projects and policies that impact their futures, alongside all key stakeholders.

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2026 Sessions Spotlighting This Pillar

The sessions below are taken from the February 2026 agenda and showcase the topics explored within this content pillar. The Mining Indaba 2027 agenda will be announced soon.

Tuesday 10 February 11:00 - 11:45

Mining investment for Shared Prosperity

Mining companies are under growing pressure to deliver value not only to shareholders but also to the communities where they operate. Innovative financing models are emerging around the globe, from revenue-sharing agreements and blended finance partnerships to community bonds and equity stakes. This session will explore how miners, investors, and governments can reframe community engagement as an investment strategy rather than a compliance exercise.

Speakers

Brendan Harris

CEO & MD

Sandfire Resources

Chali Mwefyeni

CCO

Zanaco

Nevashnee Naicker

SVP, Corporate Affairs

Anglo American

Safiatou Diallo

GM, Regional Economic Development & Strategy

Rio Tinto

Moderator

David Sturmes-Verbeek

Co-Founder

The Impact Facility

Tuesday 10 February 15:05 - 16:00

Can regional alliances amplify positive community impact?

WHAT IF mining companies actively collaborated to deliver transformative community projects – actively on the ground during life- of-mine operations but also by pooling cash towards legacy funding for post mine closure? Regional mining alliances could unlock larger, more strategic investments that go beyond individual efforts. By pooling resources, aligning goals, and coordinating action, these alliances could dramatically amplify the scale and sustainability of community benefits.

Speakers

HRH Chief Choongo

Chairperson

House of Chiefs, Zambia

Alex Khumalo

Head: Social Performance

Minerals Council South Africa

Mongezi Veti

Executive Head, Sustainability

Exxaro Resources

Shaun Verner

CEO

Syrah Resources

Sophie Bergeron

Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium and Diamonds

Moderator

Sonwabo Modimoeng

Social Performance Manager

Mogale Tailings Retreatment

View full agenda

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Critical & Strategic Minerals

The African narrative

MI27 reframes the critical minerals conversation through an African lens. The theme explores partnerships, investment and governance needed to unlock mineral potential, support industrialisation and strengthen Africa’s role in global supply chains.

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Disruptive Technologies

Breaking technology boundaries

This theme explores how AI, automation and emerging technologies are transforming mining. Discussions focus on improving efficiency, sustainability, safety and profitability while building smarter, more resilient operations.

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Energy

Users & enablers

MI27 examines how mining and energy partnerships can support reliable, sustainable energy systems. The theme focuses on industrial growth, economic development and future-focused energy solutions across Africa.

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Exploration

Unlocking the next generation of mineral discovery

Africa remains a leading frontier for mineral discovery. This theme explores how technology-enabled exploration can accelerate discoveries, strengthen project pipelines and reduce investment risk in a changing global market.

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Geopolitics

Minerals at the centre of a changing world

As competition for mineral supply chains intensifies, Africa’s resources are becoming increasingly strategic. MI27 explores how African nations can strengthen partnerships, increase negotiating power and maximise long-term benefits.

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Governance & Policy

Shared vision, shared goals

This theme explores how stable, transparent and forward-looking regulations can attract investment, strengthen competitiveness and ensure mineral wealth supports long-term development.

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Industrialisation

Creating value addition through industry

MI27 highlights the shift from raw exports toward local value addition and industrial growth. Discussions focus on strengthening processing capacity, supply chains and workforce skills across Africa.

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Infrastructure

Strengthening the pillar of progress

Infrastructure is key to unlocking Africa’s mineral potential. This theme focuses on investment in transport, power, water and digital networks that support mining growth and regional integration.

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Investment

Partnering for profit

MI27 explores how investment partnerships, financing solutions and shared infrastructure projects can unlock mineral resources, improve efficiency and strengthen Africa’s mining competitiveness.

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Leadership

The power of positive changemakers

This theme highlights leaders driving resilience, collaboration and innovation across mining. Discussions focus on strategies that support growth, transformation and global competitiveness.

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Sustainability

Mining with purpose: Strengthen ecosystems & societies

As mineral demand grows, responsible mining practices are increasingly important. This theme explores renewable energy, water conservation, ethical labour and environmental stewardship to support sustainable industry growth.

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