Photo: Contributed
By: Nghiinomenwa-ali Hangala
In an interview with Prospect, the Minerals Council South Africa chief executive officer, Mzila Mthenjane, indicated that they are partnering with the government on a 12-to-18-month growth initiative.
Mthenjane sat with Prospect during the 2026 African Mining Week.
He indicated that the initiative is aimed at expanding the South African mining industry by 3% and could inject R65 billion into the economy and unlock up to 100,000 new jobs.
He explained that while severe power and logistics challenges previously constrained growth, the past two years of stabilizing electricity supply from Eskom and improving Transnet rail performance are renewing investor confidence.
South Africa has identified mining as a key economic driver.
Mthenjane has explained that they will be working with the government on their strategy, and they will also capitalise on the investors’ confidence brought by the energy stabilisation and rail infrastructure.
Adding that, with expected jobs in the mining sector and downstream, the sector can make a dent in poverty as well.
He, however, also noted that beyond power and logistics improvement, the SA mining sector has also raised water supply issues.
Mthenjane said mining development is unlocking water investment, as their payment enables the government to have adequate capital to invest in water infrastructure.
He also highlighted that the South African mineral portfolio, and its continuous exploration, is still important in meeting the world’s demand for critical and rare earth minerals.
On the regional role, Mthenjane said the continent needs to position itself to use its mineral endowment as a key enabler of growth and development.
Moreover, to leverage regional integration to derive more value from their various minerals.
According to the Mineral Council, its mining members employ about 470,000 people, with a focus on the safety and health of employees, while ensuring zero harm.
The Council has also concluded its Investment and Growth Impact Strategies for the South African mining sector.
