Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026 theme calls for partnerships

The urgent need for collaboration across the continent as the world accelerates its transition to clean energy is reflected in this year’s African Mining Indaba’s (MI26) 2026 theme, Stronger together: Progress through partnerships (Image supplied)

African countries need to partner with each other to fast-track untapped growth opportunities across the entire mining value chain and unlock downstream industrialisation industries.

Refreshed visual identity

The Indaba, which takes place from 9–12 February 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, has introduced a refreshed visual identity inspired by the event’s core theme.

The new fingerprint motif symbolises how unique individuals and organisations, when united, can make a powerful, lasting mark on the industry. Just as overlapping fingerprints form a seamless imprint, so too do strong partnerships.

Africa stands at a crossroads

The continent holds approximately 55% of global cobalt reserves, with the DRC producing 70% of the world’s supply, nearly half of global manganese reserves, and an estimated 90% of platinum group metals, making Africa indispensable to the global energy transition.

Demand for critical minerals is surging, which Mining Indaba defines as those materials needed to industrialise and fuel African economies.

But realising this opportunity requires visionary partnerships that align diverse interests and deliver inclusive, equitable progress. The correct choices made today will ensure Africa leads the next era of sustainable mining development.

“The Mining Indaba 2026 theme resonates with the South African philosophy of Ubuntu, which values humanness and unity. When we work together as stakeholders, we can shape industries for the betterment of all, including the environment. Together, we can build the future now,” says Frans Baleni, chairman, executive advisory Board, Investing in African Mining Indaba.

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Building partnerships

This is echoed by Gwede Mantashe, minister of mineral and petroleum resources, South Africa.

“Our strength lies in building partnerships that recognise the mutual value of investment.

“At the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, we understand that investors seek returns, and rightly so, but we are equally committed to ensuring that the benefits of growth and development are shared with workers, communities, and the country at large. Progress is only meaningful when it lifts all stakeholders,” he says.

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Poised for growth

Mzila Mthenjane, CEO, Minerals Council South Africa, believes the South African mining sector is poised for growth, but its impact is amplified when working in partnership with government and other social partners.

“Together, we can enable the investment and development of key infrastructure that supports livelihoods and economic growth,” he adds.

Key themes for MI26

Community engagement and indigenous voices

Genuine partnerships with local and indigenous communities ensure equitable benefits, while preserving cultural heritage and environmental integrity.

Critical minerals

Africa’s mineral wealth positions it as a leading provider of inputs for the technology sector, as well the renewable-energy industries.

Disruptive technologies

Innovations like AI and green-energy technology are transforming mining into a smarter, more environmentally sustainable and resilient industry.

Downstream buyers

The industries that drive demand for minerals – automakers, renewables, manufacturers etc – are major stakeholders in the sector, and have valuable perspectives to share.

Governance, regulation and policy

Harmonised regulations and intra-African collaboration create stability and attract investment to unlock the continent’s mining potential.

Infrastructure and industrialisation

Strengthening transport and energy networks enables local beneficiation and transforms Africa into a hub for value-added manufacturing.

Investment and economic growth

Strategic collaborations between governments, investors, and mining companies drive sustainable development and unlock Africa’s mineral wealth.

The just energy transition

Building a new energy dispensation that slows emissions and halts climate change will require a range of critical minerals, which means new partnerships in the mining sector.

Leadership and visionary thinking

Clear-eyed leaders are essential to fostering resilience, driving innovation, and positioning Africa as a global mining powerhouse.

Sustainability

The mining sector will provide the materials for a more sustainable world, while also evolving its operations to manage its own impact on the natural and social environment.

Fostering partnerships

“This year’s theme reflects our commitment to fostering partnerships that not only drive investment but also ensure shared prosperity for all stakeholders.

"Mining Indaba is the platform where transformative ideas and collaborations come to life, showcasing joint ventures, public-private partnerships, community-driven initiatives, and disruptive technology adoption that demonstrates how collaboration can unlock opportunities and overcome challenges,” says Laura Nicholson, content and communities director, Mining Indaba.

The Indaba convenes governments, mining companies, investors, downstream industries, communities, and leading service providers to forge the partnerships needed for a prosperous, resilient future.