Johannesburg, South Africa – The South African mining sector has significantly advanced its modernization agenda with the release of three pivotal reports focusing on research, development, and innovation (RDI), artificial intelligence (AI), and global benchmarking. These reports, launched by the Minerals Council South Africa and its partners during the Modernization Showcase in Johannesburg on July 23, 2026, provide comprehensive insights into how technological advancements and innovation can enhance safety, sustainability, productivity, and the long-term competitiveness of the nation’s mining industry.
With a rich history spanning over 140 years, the South African mining industry recognizes modernization as crucial for fostering safer, healthier, and more sustainable operations. The newly released reports delve into the potential of advanced mining methods, cutting-edge processing technologies, and artificial intelligence to identify new mineral deposits, optimize operational efficiency, and bolster the industry’s global standing.
Key Publications Released:
The three publications unveiled are:
- Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) for the Modernisation of South African Mining: This survey report was collaboratively prepared by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII) and the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS), following a pilot research project with the Minerals Council South Africa.
- The Global Benchmarking Report: Developed by RIIS and the Minerals Council South Africa, this report offers a comparative analysis of global mining practices.
- 10 Insights into 4IR Report: AI – Powering the Future: This publication was a joint effort between PwC Smart Mining and the Minerals Council South Africa.
Sietse Van Der Woude, Senior Executive: Modernisation and Safety at the Minerals Council, emphasized the significance of these launches, stating,
“The launch of these publications marks another significant milestone in advancing South Africa’s mining modernization agenda and reinforcing the sector’s commitment to innovation-led safety, growth, inclusive industrial development and global competitiveness.”
The Modernization Showcase served as a crucial platform, convening mining executives, policymakers, researchers, technology providers, and innovation partners. The event facilitated discussions aimed at shaping the sector’s technology and innovation priorities for the period of 2026–2030.
Research Highlights Technology Adoption Over Pure R&D
One of the studies,
titled Modernisation of Mining in South Africa: Research, Development and Innovation Patterns and Firm Capabilities (2021–2023), was spearheaded by HSRC-CeSTII in collaboration with the Minerals Council, with additional contributions from RIIS and Copenhagen Business School.
This report meticulously examines firm-level RDI activities that are propelling mining modernization, identifying both the catalysts and impediments to progress. A salient finding indicates that modernization in South Africa is predominantly driven by the adoption of existing technologies rather than by fundamental research and development initiatives. The study further underscores the critical importance of skills development, collaborative partnerships, robust infrastructure, and adequate investment capacity. Concurrently, it highlights significant obstacles such as governance challenges and a notable scarcity of engineering, managerial, and technical skills.
Dr. Nazeem Mustapha, who leads the Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators, commented on the disparity:
“In South Africa the number of researchers per capita is about five times lower than Australia. This gives us an indication of how far behind the curve South Africa is relative to countries that have perhaps more actively and aggressively pursued modernisation in mining practices.”
Global Benchmarking Emphasizes Collaborative Ecosystems
The Global Benchmarking Report provides an in-depth analysis of how leading mining nations are advancing modernization through innovative strategies, technology integration, supportive policy frameworks, and strategic investments. The report articulates key recommendations designed to bolster South Africa’s competitive edge and facilitate the widespread adoption of innovative technologies.
According to the findings, globally competitive mining industries are not solely reliant on technological adoption. They also thrive on robust innovation ecosystems, well-coordinated policy frameworks, and sustained collaboration among industry stakeholders, governmental bodies, and research institutions.
