Changing political environments along with improved commodity prices have created optimism in the mining sector for the year ahead. According to Alex Grose, managing director of the Investing in African Mining Indaba, it’s a far more positive operating environment for the sector than was the case a year ago. He said it was an interesting time of political change – not only in South Africa but elsewhere on the continent. “We have very high hopes for the creation of political landscapes that foster improved investment environments,” said Grose. The change in Zimbabwe and South Africa at the end of last year in particular has piqued interest in the region. “Winds of change are blowing in South Africa. Ramaphosa had a spring in his step at the World Economic Forum in Davos recently,” said Mpho Makwana, chairman of the Mining Indaba advisory board, indicating that South Africa was regaining some of its stature globally. Makwana said African mining was finally moving forward after years of pressure. “Lessons have been learnt during these hard times. There is no doubt a need that the mining industry needs to reflect as we figure out ways to play our strategic game better.” In this regard he said mining and metals companies needed to consider five actions to proactively prepare to contribute positively to a sustainable future. “Business needs to have decisive conversations with stakeholders – including civil society and government – about their vision for a sustainable world, invest in research and development houses to operate in a clean environment, define shared values, rethink stakeholder models and cultivate the workplace.”
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We have very high hopes for the creation of political landscapes that foster improved investment environments. – Alex Grose
