Early in February the Mining Indaba took place in Cape Town, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the future of mining in Africa.
According to a PwC report, the global mining sector faced unprecedented, yet familiar financial challenges in 2023. Declining commodity prices and rising costs led to a more than 7% drop in revenues among the world’s top 40 mining companies, with profits shrinking as well. Pressure continued in 2024, marking the first time since 2016 that industry revenues would fall for two consecutive years. A mix of cyclical and structural issues compels leading mining companies to invest for growth and transformation even as revenues and profit margins come under pressure.[1]
One of the key strategies to improve productivity in mining, is the adoption of automation, mechanisation, and process optimisation. Reducing resource consumption, like energy, is also crucial. Implementing energy demand management and energy efficiency measures can significantly cut costs while supporting sustainability goals.
The Internet of Things (IoT) enables remote monitoring of operations, early detection of equipment and other failures, and preventative maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing efficiency. The creation of digital twins (virtual models of physical operations) can optimise workflows and de-bottleneck a plant’s operations. However, all these advancements require a skilled workforce that is trained to operate, maintain, and innovate within these systems.
This is where Resolution Circle plays a vital role. Their technical training programmes, customised workshops, and practical skills development equip workers with the expertise needed to support these technological advancements in mining. They provide hands-on training in automation, energy efficiency, digital transformation and mechanical- and electrical maintenance.
Some mining companies choose to manage their training in-house. Others outsource their training functions to third party providers. Resolution Circle has successfully partnered with several mining companies to deliver tailored training solutions, either as a standalone service, or through creating and managing purpose-built training centres.
In South Africa, mining companies must adhere to the Mining Charter’s Social Labour plan, which includes skills development for employees and the community. Resolution Circle’s training programmes help to fulfil these requirements, bridging the gap between industry needs and skills development.
To realise the dream of Mining Indaba 2025 – “Future-Proofing African Mining, Today!” – Resolution Circle can provide practical solutions to complex challenges, and improve the future of employees and communities, long after mine closure.
[1] PWC Mine Report 2024 (21st edition) dated 27 June 2024
