South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Gwede Mantashe, will launch the Mineworkers Development Agency (MDA) Digital Hub. The initiative will equip 100 young people and community members with digital and AI skills, fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening local economies.
Robotics Academy Programmes
Epiroc South Africa, in partnership with the Siyafunda Education Foundation, has introduced robotics and coding programs in Northern Cape schools. The initiative aims to nurture STEM education and prepare students for a technology-driven mining future.
Data Analytics and AI
The 2025 IT Indaba highlights the importance of data maturity and agentic AI in South African mining. A national data consolidation platform is being developed to integrate safety intelligence. This will enable predictive risk analysis and support proactive intervention strategies across mining operations.
Safety Intelligence and Innovation
South Africa’s updated safety framework, Khumbul’ekhaya 2.0, emphasizes Data 4.0 for proactive safety management. Digital data streams are consolidated to identify risks before incidents occur. The framework also includes human-centric wellness programs addressing mental health and fatigue in high-stress environments.
Innovative Safety Equipment
South Africa’s ERG Industrial and Venture Plastics Distributors are pioneering the use of advanced solar-powered LED cones to enhance safety during night operations.
Strategic Acquisitions and Restructuring
Europa Metals agreed to acquire Marula Africa Mining Holdings, a subsidiary of Marula Mining Plc. This all-share transaction covers Marula Africa’s production assets in Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Africa. The deal may constitute a reverse takeover for Europa Metals, expanding its footprint in key African markets.
Exxaro Resources completed the sale of its non-core Exxaro FerroAlloys business to a consortium led by EverSeed Energy for R250 million, effective October 31, 2025. The move allows Exxaro to focus on core assets in energy, coal, and sustainable resources.
General Kinematics, a global leader in material handling and processing equipment, acquired Llambec Technology to strengthen its presence in Africa. The acquisition is aimed at accelerating the company’s expansion across the continent, providing access to innovative technology solutions, local expertise, and a broader customer base.
Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturer, terminated its nickel and cobalt offtake agreement with Alliance Nickel. The deal had been intended to secure a stable supply of critical battery metals for electric vehicle production. The termination reflects shifting priorities in supply chain management and highlights the ongoing volatility and strategic reassessment in the global battery materials market.
Autonomous Drilling Milestone
Epiroc and LuckStone launched the first fully autonomous SmartROC D65 drill rig in the United States. The system uses advanced sensors, precision control, and data analytics to optimize drilling efficiency while reducing human exposure to hazardous zones. This strengthens Epiroc’s position in smart mining solutions that improve productivity and safety.
AI in Exploration
GeologicAI and Edge Copper are using AI for the Zonia copper project in Arizona. AI-driven geological modeling improves exploration accuracy and speeds up decision-making.
Vedanta’s CopperTech plans to use AI-based geological surveys and “drill and fill” projects to support new exploration in Zambia.
Integrated Safety Systems
Booyco Electronics continues to advance proximity detection and collision prevention systems. Using radio frequency and GPS, these systems enhance situational awareness in both underground and surface operations. They automatically detect multiple collision risks and integrate with mine management systems for real-time safety interventions.
Decarbonization and Electrification
Rolls-Royce and Forsee Power are partnering to develop high-performance battery systems for heavy-duty electrification projects. This collaboration supports emission reduction and the shift to fully electric mining operations, including off-grid industrial sites.
Remote Communication and Connectivity
BFBS and APC Technology are enhancing connectivity at remote mine sites. Their solutions improve communication, data management, and worker welfare in isolated environments.
Legal Update
Webber Wentzel provided an update on proposed amendments to South African mining regulations under the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA). Changes may include mandatory missing-person locator systems for underground and high-risk surface mines.
Geological Data Management Software
acQuire Technology Solutions launched GIM Suite 5.5. The software simplifies geological data capture and management, offering tailored templates and a faster, more secure backend system. It helps field teams collect data more efficiently and accurately.
