Digitalization is transforming the minerals sector

As I addressed the audience at the Digitalization in Mining Africa Conference recently, I could not help but contemplate mining’s remarkable contribution to humanity’s progress throughout history. It has been central to our progress from the from the stone, copper, bronze, and iron ages. Mining has shaped pivotal turning points in history like the birth of currency, the discovery of gunpowder, and the invention of the compass. The role of coal and steel in the industrial revolution further highlighted mining’s significance.

Even in the digital age that we live in today, minerals remain crucial. Mining and technology have a symbiotic relationship. Mining relies on technology for efficiency, safety, and sustainability. In the same breath, technology requires minerals and metals, to manufacture electronics, renewable energy technologies, and infrastructure. Key technologies in mining include automation, the Internet of Things, AI, renewable energy integration and augmented reality.

I believe African mines have great potential to supply the world with raw materials essential for 4IR while technology can enhance the mining process. This creates a mutually beneficial cycle. The African continent is well placed to benefit from the increased demand for critical minerals. This includes 90% of PGMs, 70% cobalt and 80% of manganese reserves to mention a few.

For the continent to fully benefit from the critical minerals boom, we must optimize our mining efforts from exploration all the way up to extraction. We can achieve this by ensuring that mining catches up with other industries when it comes to embracing automation. In mining, processes remain largely manual, and the pace of transformation is slow but this can be improved, as seen at African mines where advanced technology has been implemented.
However, digital transformation is slow in mining compared to other industries. At Menar we have embarked on a digital transformation journey involving several interventions, including the Liso programme, Collision Avoidance Proximity Systems and 5G connectivity. Other examples of mining-tech on the continent include autonomous haulage, blockchain traceability and real-time data analytics.

The technological shift in mining industry not only revolutionizes the way mines operate but also transforms the skill sets required from the workforce. As technology advances, the demand for traditional mining skills decreases, while the need for technologically proficient workers increases. The World Economic Forum predicts-60% of workers will need retraining by 2027. The industry must support initiatives to upskill its workforce, ensuring that people are equipped to cope with the changes.

Despite slow digital transformation, miners still symbolize resilience in the face of technological change. Miners will be the last wo/man standing.

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