The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference will feature Mzaila Mathenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council of South Africa, as a speaker. Scheduled for 14 to 16 October 2026 in Cape Town, the event will bring together global investors, policy makers and industry leaders, with Mathenjane's participation highlighting the Council's commitment to engaging international stakeholders and promoting investment in South Africa's mining sector.
His participation comes at a crucial moment as the Mineral Council works closely with the government to finalize the Mineral Resources Development Bill 2025, a policy framework aimed at strengthening the country's mining investment climate and strengthening the sector's contribution to GDP. According to the council, the amended legislation will support new investments across the value chain as South Africa seeks to raise R2 trillion over the next five years to unlock its significant mineral potential.
Policy reforms have come amid the changing trends of production in the sector. In 2025, the production of gold and platinum group metals in South Africa is projected to decline by 1.9% and 4.1% respectively. The new regulatory framework is expected to strengthen public-private partnerships and encourage investment, enabling South Africa to increase production and take advantage of strong global commodity prices. Increasing private sector investment is key for South Africa, which is seeking to unlock an estimated R40 trillion in untapped iron ore potential as well as maintain its position as the world's leading producer of chrome and manganese.
At AMW 2026, MTHENGEN is expected to highlight these trends, providing insight into how the Council is contributing to tackling the challenges disrupting the sector. Infrastructure and energy costs remain major concerns for industry players. To support the energy-intensive sector, South Africa approved a 35% reduction in electricity tariffs for major ferrochrome producers, helping to stabilize an industry that has faced significant cost pressures after electricity prices increased nearly 900% since 2008.
Logistic constraints are also a priority area for improvement. South Africa's economy is losing an estimated R1 billion a day due to inefficiencies in rail and port infrastructure. As a result, the Government is considering measures, supported by the Minerals Council, to increase private sector participation in logistics. Planned reforms include a rail modernization initiative targeting 250 million tonnes of freight capacity by 2029, as well as port upgrades and private operator involvement aimed at strengthening mineral exports and improving supply chain efficiency.
Beyond infrastructure and policy reforms, the Minerals Council is advocating for stronger exploration investment to support long-term industry growth.
At AMW, Mthenogen is expected to highlight these developments and outline the steps needed to strengthen South Africa's position in the global minerals supply chain. His insights will provide investors and stakeholders a timely perspective on opportunities in the country's mining sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.