Driving sustainable investment in African Mining

Paul Barrett

CEO Rome Resources

Paul is a career geologist with a wide experience in mainstream oil and mineral exploration, spanning several continents and ranging from multi-national companies to start-ups.  At one stage, his Canadian start-up was the largest holder of exploration acreage of any private company in the Arctic.  He previously founded Europa Oil & Gas and brought it to AIM, whilst more recently steered Pathfinder Minerals through its reverse takeover of Rome Resources, involving three rounds of fundraising for its DRC tin and copper venture. Rome is currently drilling to delineate the resource.  


2026 Agenda Sessions

Unlocking capital for explorers and junior mining companies

Exploration is vital for global mining future, but junior miners still face challenges in raising early-stage capital. This panel explores who’s funding exploration in 2026, how juniors are positioning themselves for success, and the role governments, particularly South Africa, are playing in incentivising discovery through new funds, incentives, and regulatory reforms.

Wednesday 11 February 10:05 - 10:50 River Nile Stage (CTICC1 - Ground Floor - Investment Village)

Add to calendar 02/11/2026 10:05 02/11/2026 10:50 Unlocking capital for explorers and junior mining companies

Exploration is vital for global mining future, but junior miners still face challenges in raising early-stage capital. This panel explores who’s funding exploration in 2026, how juniors are positioning themselves for success, and the role governments, particularly South Africa, are playing in incentivising discovery through new funds, incentives, and regulatory reforms.

River Nile Stage (CTICC1 - Ground Floor - Investment Village) Africa/Johannesburg