Cape Town is hosting the 2026 Mining Indaba, which convened on Tuesday under the theme “Stronger Together.”
The annual conference serves as a platform for government leaders and industry executives to discuss the priorities and future of Africa’s mining sector.
During the event, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema delivered the keynote address, calling on African nations to lead the design of their own economic programs rather than relying on the IMF. He emphasized that international partners should support African-led initiatives instead of imposing solutions.
South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, also highlighted the importance of prioritizing African interests in trade and investment. He stated that Africa must protect its own needs first and not simply cater to external demands.
Since its inception in 1994, Mining Indaba has aimed to promote the continent’s mining industry, attract sustainable investment, and drive economic growth.