Sandton: Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has described the mining industry as a ‘sunrise industry’ that is diversifying from bygone eras. The Minister said this during his address at the Mintek @90 Conference held in Sandton on Monday. Mintek is, among other things, the national research and development entity specifically focused on mining and metallurgy.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mantashe emphasized that Mintek continues to conduct research that not only benefits the industry but also drives technological innovations with a positive societal impact. This effort is expected to stimulate economic growth, reduce unemployment and inequality, and help eradicate poverty in South Africa. The Minister highlighted the significant role Mintek plays in transforming the South African mining industry from its gold mining past to a diversified sector with the world’s largest reserves of platinum group metals, manganese, chrome, coal, vanadium, and rare earth minerals.
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e Minister also noted the increasing global demand for ‘green’ minerals as the world transitions towards renewable energy sources. He stressed the potential for Mintek to become a significant player on national, continental, and global stages, particularly in the production of PGM, which are crucial for green technologies and electric vehicles. As the largest producer of manganese and chrome, South Africa is well-positioned to meet the expected demand in the global automotive and construction industries.
Mantashe addressed the challenge of illegal mining, revealing that Mintek is actively involved in tackling ownerless and derelict mines to combat illegal mining and ore trading. The entity is also working on improving mining processes and efficiency, despite insufficient funding for these initiatives. These efforts align with the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and sustainable growth within the industry.
He further emphasized Mintek’s leadership in driving technological innovations t
hat enhance metal recovery, improve processes, and ensure efficient energy and water resource utilization. This focus reflects the government’s commitment to safe waste reclamation and broader environmental sustainability within the sector.
The Minister concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration between government, the private sector, and academia for the success of South Africa’s mining sector, which has contributed at least 6.3% to the nominal Gross Domestic Product this year. These collaborations are essential for driving progress, fostering innovation, and responding effectively to market demands, thereby promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and the environment. Mantashe expressed confidence in Mintek’s continued trajectory of innovation and excellence in mineral technology for the next 90 years.