James Smith
CEO DRA Global
James is a highly experienced and qualified executive with more than 25 years’ experience in the mining, industrial and financial sectors. Originally a process engineer in the mining industry, James has held various consulting, investment advisory and operational leadership positions. He has extensive experience in strategy development and execution, operational excellence, mergers and acquisitions and organisational leadership within the mining and industrial sectors.
2026 Agenda Sessions
Partnering with China to accelerate mining tech in Africa - Part 1
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 10:00 - 10:30 Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall)
Disruptive technologies
Infrastructure and industrialisation
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
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