The Investing in African Mining Indaba (MI26) has unveiled its 2026 theme: “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships.”
This transformative direction emphasizes Africa’s urgent need for collaboration to unlock immense mining opportunities, industrialize key sectors, and drive sustainable economic growth.
With Africa possessing 55% of global cobalt reserves, nearly half of all manganese reserves, and 90% of platinum group metals, the continent is a linchpin in the global transition to clean energy.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) alone produces 70% of the world’s cobalt supply, highlighting Africa’s strategic importance in supplying critical minerals needed for technology and renewables.
However, realizing this potential requires visionary partnerships. The choices made today will shape Africa’s future as a sustainable mining powerhouse that fuels industrialization and global progress.
Industry Leaders Call for Unity and Strategic Investment
“Mining Indaba 2026 theme aligns with Ubuntu the philosophy of unity. Strong partnerships will ensure mining development benefits all stakeholders, including local communities and the environment,” says Frans Baleni, Chairman of the Executive Advisory Board, Investing in African Mining Indaba.
South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, echoes this sentiment: “Investors deserve returns, but equitable growth means communities, workers, and nations also reap the benefits. Only shared progress is meaningful progress.”
Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council South Africa, reinforces the importance of collaboration: “By working together, we can enable the development of critical infrastructure, boosting employment, economic resilience, and industrial expansion.”
Thematic Pillars for MI26: A Roadmap to Sustainable Growth
Mining Indaba 2026 will focus on:
- Critical Minerals: Cementing Africa’s role as the world’s key supplier of technology metals.
- Community Engagement: Ensuring mining benefits local populations while preserving heritage and environmental integrity.
- Disruptive Technologies: Leveraging AI, automation, and green tech for sustainable mining innovation.
- Infrastructure Development: Strengthening transport and energy networks to drive industrialization.
- Investment & Growth: Mobilizing global investments that unlock Africa’s mineral wealth.
- The Just Energy Transition: Supporting climate goals through responsible mineral extraction.
Mining Indaba 2026: A Global Meeting of Minds
The event takes place from 9–12 February 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, bringing together governments, mining companies, investors, manufacturers, and key stakeholders to forge groundbreaking partnerships.
“Mining Indaba is where transformative collaborations take shape, ensuring prosperity and innovation through joint ventures and community-driven initiatives,” says Laura Nicholson, Content and Communities Director, Mining Indaba.
Africa’s Moment to Shine
With its refreshed visual identity, MI26 embraces a fingerprint motif, symbolizing the collective imprint that stakeholders, businesses, and investors leave on Africa’s mining industry when they unite.
The synergy of strong partnerships will elevate Africa’s mining leadership onto the global stage.
Africa has the resources, vision, and leadership now, through collaboration, the continent will harness its mineral wealth for sustainable, equitable prosperity.
Visit:MI2026
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