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Driving sustainable investment in African Mining

Sifiso Siwela

Associate Partner & Technical Mining Services Africa Lead ERM

Sifiso is an Associate Partner and Africa Lead for ERM’s Technical Mining Services, with a focus on the sustainability of mining projects. He oversees multidisciplinary, global projects throughout the mineral asset lifecycle. As a registered geologist with over 20 years of consulting experience, he specialises in exploration, mineral project valuations, and integrated due diligence reviews across a diverse range of commodities, such as battery metals, precious metals, precious stones, and industrial minerals. Prior to joining ERM, Sifiso served as Senior Manager at Deloitte Technical Mining Advisory, where he gained experience in technical reviews, audits, mineral strategy design and operational improvements within mining operations. He is currently Chairperson of the SAMCODES Standards Committee, which develops, maintains, administers, ensures compliance with, and promotes the SAMREC, SAMVAL, and SAMOG codes. Furthermore, he is a Fellow and Past President of the GSSA, a Fellow of the SAIMM, and a member of the SEG. He has also lectured on compliance and reporting in the extractives industry at Wits University, as well as on geochemistry at Rhodes University. His expertise has been acknowledged through various mining publications and speaking engagements at industry conferences.

2026 Agenda Sessions

The hidden costs of underinvesting in mineral exploration

Mineral exploration is the lifeblood of the mining industry, underpinning sustainable operations and long-term growth. It is a strategic investment, not a discretionary expense, yet, in an era of capital discipline and short investment cycles, exploration budgets are often the first to be reduced – creating invisible but far-reaching strategic risks. 

This talk examines how underinvestment in exploration can erode resource pipelines, disrupt supply chains, and undermine future profitability. It will highlight the vital role of exploration in maintaining geological confidence, optimising mine planning, and unlocking new growth opportunities. Through real-world examples, insights and strategic frameworks, learn how mining companies can balance short-term pressures with long-term resilience.

Thursday 12 February 11:15 - 12:00 Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall)

Governance, regulation and policy

Sustainability

Add to calendar 02/12/2026 11:15 02/12/2026 12:00 The hidden costs of underinvesting in mineral exploration Mineral exploration is the lifeblood of the mining industry, underpinning sustainable operations and long-term growth. It is a strategic investment, not a discretionary expense, yet, in an era of capital discipline and short investment cycles, exploration budgets are often the first to be reduced – creating invisible but far-reaching strategic risks. 

This talk examines how underinvestment in exploration can erode resource pipelines, disrupt supply chains, and undermine future profitability. It will highlight the vital role of exploration in maintaining geological confidence, optimising mine planning, and unlocking new growth opportunities. Through real-world examples, insights and strategic frameworks, learn how mining companies can balance short-term pressures with long-term resilience. Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall) Africa/Johannesburg
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CTICC
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South Africa

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9-12 February 2026

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