Driving sustainable investment in African Mining

Andrew Thorburn

CEO Galison Manufacturing

Andrew is the CEO of Galison Manufacturing. He has over 25 years experience in the design and manufacture of Underground mining equipment in various roles for Galison. In his present role, he overseas the strategic, operational and financial functions of Galison, which has over 300 employees. Before that he held management roles at Highveld Steel and Vanadium and at Spearhead Consulting. Galison manufacture world class, rail based, mechanised ore haulage systems, with customers including some of the largest mines around the World. In partnership with Beijing Soly, they are able to provide full automation for this critical mine function, to increase efficiency and safety. Andrew has degrees in Mechanical Engineering from UCT, Commerce from Unisa, and a Masters in Management from London Business School.


2026 Agenda Sessions

Partnering with China to accelerate mining tech in Africa – Part 2

China’s mining sector has leapfrogged in automation, processing, and digital integration. Explore how African mining can learn from Chinese innovation, particularly in critical minerals, remote operations, and AI, and how partnerships with Chinese tech providers can fast-track Africa’s mining sector and its industrialisation objectives. From lithium refineries to smart haulage, collaboration is the key to unlocking shared growth. 

Tuesday 10 February 10:30 - 11:00 Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall)

Add to calendar 02/10/2026 10:30 02/10/2026 11:00 Partnering with China to accelerate mining tech in Africa – Part 2 China’s mining sector has leapfrogged in automation, processing, and digital integration. Explore how African mining can learn from Chinese innovation, particularly in critical minerals, remote operations, and AI, and how partnerships with Chinese tech providers can fast-track Africa’s mining sector and its industrialisation objectives. From lithium refineries to smart haulage, collaboration is the key to unlocking shared growth.  Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall) Africa/Johannesburg