The current and future challenges and opportunities of mining in South Africa take centre stage at Wits University this week, as the Wits Mining Institute (WMI) hosts its annual seminar, which will be attended by government, industry leaders, researchers, communities and young professionals.
Under the theme of ‘Legacy to Leadership: Shaping Sustainable Mining Futures’, the 8 October event features a keynote address by Sibanye-Stillwater’s Vice President of Technology and Innovation, Alex Fenn, setting the scene for how industry views the future of mining.
In another keynote address, Adjunct Professor Nellia Mutemari of Wits University’s School of Mining will focus on critical minerals and the just transition – challenges and opportunities that the country will need to navigate. Her presentation will examine the relationship between mineral development, investment and the broader transition towards a more sustainable economy.
According to WMI Director Pontsho Twala, the programme also includes panel discussions and a leadership masterclass, providing a platform for debate on some of the most pressing issues facing the mining sector.
“Panel discussions will address some of the key sustainability issues for the industry, including mine closure, the social compact, technological modernisation and the future of work,” says Twala.
Three panel discussions will address key dimensions of mining’s future. The first – on legacy, mine closure and the social compact – will consider the industry’s responsibilities beyond the operational life of its mines. Moderated by Dineo Skosana, Senior Researcher at Wits University, the panel brings together Zinzi Lawrence of ENS Africa, Noleen Dube, head of corporate affairs at South 32, Zethu Hlatshwayo, spokesperson for the National Association and Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (NAAM), Nolwazi Serero, community leader and advocate and Dr Urishanie Govender, Chief Sustainability Officer at Harmony Gold.
Technology and modernisation will be the focus of the second panel. Participants will include Hugh Maleka, Vice President for Sub-Saharan Africa Mining Technology and Digital Transformation at Ramjack Technology Solutions; Victor Thobakgale of African Rainbow Minerals; Dr Gargi Mishra of Microsoft Frontier Company; Kevin Schlorke of Schauenburg Systems; and Isaac Mabala, Lecturer at Wits University’s School of Mining. The discussion will explore the role of innovation and digital transformation in the industry’s evolution.
The third panel, on skills, youth and the future of work, will examine the people and capabilities needed for the next generation of mining. Moderated by Nelly Shabangu, Skills and Development Manager at the Mining Qualifications Authority, it will feature youth coordinator Boitumelo Ramokgwatheng, entrepreneur and Mining Engineering student, Eliakim Chauke and Vumile Mbonani, co-founder of the South African Mining Youth Association (SAMYA).
The programme concludes with a leadership masterclass led by Bokang Kelapa of Baletsema Holdings and Mekgwe Mfolo of Elderberry Consulting Engineers and Triad Water Solutions. To attend the WMI Seminar 2026 or obtain further information please email Lileen Lee at lileen.lee@wits.ac.za
