The Mandela Mining Precinct (MMP) – a public-private partnership between the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the Minerals Council South Africa – hosted a showcase event at the CSIR International Convention Centre on Monday, November 18. The theme of the event – "Accelerating Mining RDI: Integrating Research Excellence with Mining Innovation" – highlighted innovative mining modernisation tools and solutions, people-centred approaches to technological change and human capital development programmes.

During the event, the MMP featured a mix of exhibitions, technological demonstrations, breakaway sessions, an exciting panel discussion and an anchor address by the DSTI’s Deputy Director-General Dr Mmboneni Muofhe, CSIR CEO Dr Thulani Dlamini and the Minerals Council South Africa CEO Mzila Mthenjane.

Through MMP’s Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) programme, innovative local and global technologies aim to create “glass rock” environments for mining development and technology adoption in South Africa. The AOK programme seeks to raise awareness of operationally ready geoscientific technologies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of mining operations. This includes drones capable of navigating enclosed spaces like underground tunnels to inspect, map and survey the rock face; handheld scanning devices designed to detect hazards at the rock face and analysers that can assess mineral deposits in real time.

MMP Executive Director Julie Courtnage stated that the future of South African mining hinged on two critical factors: sustaining current operations and integrating disruptive technologies to keep the sector competitive and inclusive. “The MMP showcase event provided a comprehensive view of mining's current state and outlined a forward-thinking strategy to achieve modernisation, sustainability and zero harm.”

Michelle Pienaar, MMP AOK Programme Manager, explained that the event aimed to improve geological confidence ahead of the rock face. “With ‘look ahead’ technology, unexpected features and events could be detected and avoided or additional engineering measures could be implemented to prevent injuries and damage to equipment. We have a very powerful opportunity here to help drive technological adoption to propel zero-harm strategies.”

Attendees also had the opportunity to see innovative tools and technologies from all the MMP research programmes: mechanised mining systems, longevity of current mines, real-information management systems and successful application of technologies centred around people.

"The MMP represents a key pillar in South Africa’s journey towards a modernised and technologically advanced mining sector. By fostering collaboration between government, industry, science councils and academia, the MMP is driving innovation to ensure that the future of mining is safer, more efficient and inclusive,” stated Dr Muofhe.

The innovative tools and technologies exhibited at the event are a true testament to government’s commitment outlined in the DSTI’s 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation and the Decadal Plan, contributing to the modernisation and sustainability of South Africa’s mining industry. Additionally, the partnership is crucial in that the Minerals Council South Africa matches the DSTI's research, development and innovation (RDI) funding at 50 cents for every R1. This also helps increase the overall national investment in R&D.

Mthenjane said, while striving for a safer, healthier and more efficient mining sector, it is critical to balance modernisation with environmental and human-centred considerations. “The MMP showcase highlighted initiatives that can shape a sustainable, inclusive and modernised mining industry."