Against the backdrop of Mining Indaba 2025, the official launch of the XCMG and Kiboko Group partnership took centre stage on February 5, 2025. The collaboration is said to represent a transformative moment for southern Africa’s mining and construction sectors, uniting global innovation with local expertise to drive regional economic growth, localisation and skills development.
Kiboko Group has emerged as a transformative force in Africa’s mining sector, driving technological innovation, sustainability and AI-powered solutions that redefine efficiency and productivity in mining operations across the continent.
Held at the Waterfront in Cape Town, the event brought together key stakeholders from the mining industry to mark the partnership’s potential to revolutionise mining operations. XCMG’s cutting-edge technological advancements, combined with Kiboko’s local expertise in providing comprehensive industry solutions, signal a new era for mining and construction in South Africa. This partnership also reflects the Mining Indaba’s ethos of fostering meaningful collaborations to shape the future of mining on the continent.
XCMG and Kiboko Group participated in Mining Indaba 2025 with a dedicated stand, offering attendees the opportunity to explore their latest advancements in mining and construction equipment, including technologies prioritising sustainability, efficiency, and safety.
Kiboko Group’s product strategy is designed to address three key mining trends: high-end orientation, green transition and emissions reduction, and smart mining technology and intelligence. By integrating digital monitoring solutions, automation, and AI-powered data analytics, Kiboko is revolutionising the way mining operations optimise efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
As part of its technological expansion, Kiboko Group is introducing a diverse range of high-performance mining equipment, including excavators, mining excavators, mining hydraulic excavators, dual-axle rigid dump trucks and tri-axle rigid dump trucks.
These machines are equipped with real-time data tracking, intelligent automation, and energy-efficient systems that improve operational efficiency and reduce downtime. Additionally, Kiboko provides AI-driven predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics and automated performance tracking, ensuring that mining operations experience minimal disruptions. By incorporating machine learning algorithms, IOT sensors and cloud-based analytics, Kiboko is transforming traditional equipment servicing into a data-driven, proactive maintenance strategy.
XCMG Vice President and GM Dr Hanson Liu, Kiboko CEO Nhlakanipho Ngcobo, and African Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation (AEMFC) CEO Lemogang Pitsoe, addressed attendees on the power of partnerships and the bright prospects this collaboration will create.
Ngcobo celebrated the partnership as a milestone for local empowerment and innovation: “At Kiboko Group, we believe that partnerships like this are vital to building South Africa’s future. By joining forces with XCMG, we are not just bringing advanced equipment to our clients; we are creating opportunities for artisans, operators, and suppliers across the region. Together, we are fostering an environment where technology drives progress, safety becomes standard, and economic empowerment is a reality for more people.”
Ngcobo highlighted Kiboko Group’s role as a dynamic and innovative provider of mining industry solutions. “Kiboko Group is uniquely positioned to address the needs of the mining industries across Africa. Specialising in equipment rentals, sales, and support services, we bring technical expertise and a commitment to excellence to every partnership we form. This collaboration with XCMG strengthens our ability to serve our clients while empowering local communities and industries,” he added.
Dr Liu emphasised XCMG’s commitment to innovation underpinned by XCMG’s globalisation and green smart mining machinery and highlighted how the partnership with Kiboko reflects the company’s mission to lead responsibly in global markets:
“As the world’s third-largest construction machinery manufacturer, XCMG is proud to support South Africa’s mining and construction industries. This partnership with Kiboko marks an exciting new chapter, bringing our latest world-class technology and equipment to the region. Together, we aim to not only enhance operational efficiencies but also empower local communities through skills transfer and safety-driven mechanisation. By prioritising training and upskilling, we are committed to building a workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow in mining and construction with confidence and expertise.”
Pitsoe emphasised the importance of strengthening South Africa’s mining competitiveness through strategic industry collaborations:
“As a state-owned mining company, AEMFC is committed to ensuring South Africa’s mining industry competitiveness by advancing responsible and sustainable mining. This partnership between Kiboko and XCMG aligns with our vision of enhancing local capabilities, improving efficiency, and supporting the country’s long-term mining goals.
Importantly, this is about partnership – South Africa’s relationship with China is not new. This marks a new chapter in a long-standing story of collaboration. We are particularly proud to see a young, dynamic company like Kiboko joining forces with an industry giant like XCMG. The exchange of expertise will be invaluable to both parties, driving optimisation, responsible mining practices, and meaningful benefits for our communities.
By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and industry-leading expertise, we can build a more resilient and sustainable mining sector – one that develops globally competitive skills, creates jobs, and contributes to South Africa’s economic growth.”
