In the face of a global energy transition driving an unprecedented demand for critical minerals, Mining Indaba 2024 sets the stage for a pivotal discussion on the just energy transition. The conference, held in Cape Town from February 5-8, will explore the implications of what it means to be just in the extraction and use of Africa’s abundant critical mineral resources.
A Just Transition: Ensuring Equity and Sustainability
Scheduled for Tuesday, February 6, at 10:55, a panel session titled ‘The Energy Transition: What does it mean to be just?’ aims to dissect the concept of justice in the energy transition. Panelists will debate how Africa can leverage this global shift towards cleaner energy while ensuring responsible sourcing and ethical supply of essential minerals. The session will also tackle strategies for powering the production of transition minerals and distributing mining benefits equitably among affected employees through local content partnerships.
Rohitesh Dhawan, President & CEO of the International Council of Mining and Metals (ICMM) and a foundational partner to Mining Indaba, emphasizes the critical role of minerals in the energy transition. He remarks, “Critical minerals are the backbone of the energy transition, and the manner in which we source and produce them holds equal importance.”
Distinguished Panelists to Guide the Discussion
The panel boasts a lineup of esteemed speakers, including Fabiana Di Lorenzo, Senior Director of the Responsible Minerals Initiative, and Paul Sowley, Senior Director of Environmental Affairs at Newmont’s Africa Business Unit. Other panelists include Peter Venn, CEO of Seriti Green Development South Africa, and Sasha Cook, Head of Sustainable Finance at Standard Bank South Africa. Deloitte’s Jayne Mammatt, a partner specializing in Sustainability, Climate Change, and Equity, will moderate the session.
Laura Cornish, Head of Content at Investing in Mining Indaba, highlights the significance of this year’s extended Sustainability Series. “Our commitment to sustainability discussions reflects the mining industry’s imperative to address environmental and social challenges head-on. This year, we aim to inspire actionable solutions through real-world case studies,” Cornish states.
Exploring Broader Community Involvement in Net-Zero Mining
Another noteworthy session, ‘The Silent ‘C’ – Communities! Are they truly part of the net-zero mining discussion?’ scheduled for February 6 at 12:30, will challenge the industry to broaden its perspective on community resilience. Moderated by Stacy Hope, Managing Director of Women in Mining UK, the panel will feature voices from Ivanhoe Mines, Exxaro Group, the Cobalt Institute, and Rio Tinto, all converging on the critical role communities play in achieving net-zero targets.
U.S. Clean Energy Supply Chains: Opportunities for Africa
A session titled “How can African mineral producers participate in U.S. clean energy supply chains?” set for Wednesday, February 7, at 16:40, promises to offer insights into integrating African mineral producers into U.S. clean energy industries. This dialogue, sparked by recent U.S. climate-related legislation, explores potential synergies between the U.S.’s clean energy objectives and Africa’s industrialization aspirations.
Mining Indaba 2024: A Convergence of Minds and Resources
Investing in African Mining Indaba continues to be the premier event for mining investment in Africa, providing a unique platform for ministers, government representatives, mining companies, investors, and service providers. The 2024 edition promises to foster high-quality content, networking, and deal-making opportunities, further driving the mining industry forward.
As the world stands on the cusp of a significant energy transition, Mining Indaba 2024 aims to ensure that the journey towards cleaner energy is equitable, responsible, and beneficial for all stakeholders involved, particularly the African continent which is poised to play a critical role in supplying the minerals essential for this global shift.
