Driving sustainability in Africa's mining sector

Africa's mining sector is poised to be a driving force for economic growth if managed sustainably. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Rohitesh Dhawa, CEO of the International Council for Mining and Metals (ICMM), at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa. The ICMM represents 24 of the world's largest mining companies, many of which operate in Africa, with a commitment to responsible and sustainable practices. Dhawa emphasized the importance of producing minerals responsibly while ensuring the prosperity of communities and the restoration of the planet. Responsible and sustainable mining, according to Dhawa, involves ensuring that people prosper from mining activities while also addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. The vision is to reduce inequality, promote economic growth, and move towards a nature-positive future. Reflecting on past mistakes, Dhawa acknowledged that the mining industry has caused harm to both people and the environment. However, there is a renewed commitment among ICMM members to rectify these issues and operate in a more socially and environmentally responsible manner. While there is a growing sense of urgency around achieving climate targets, Dhawa highlighted the challenges of addressing social and community issues, which are inherently local and context-specific. He stressed the importance of understanding the unique social priorities of each region and engaging in meaningful dialogue with local stakeholders. Dhawa emphasized the need for a humanistic approach in addressing these complex issues, moving beyond technical solutions and embracing a more empathetic and inclusive mindset. In terms of financial investment, Dhawa acknowledged the need for increased funding to support responsible mining practices. With many African countries hosting critical minerals essential for the energy transition, there is a push for value addition and beneficiation within local economies. Dhawa emphasized the importance of ensuring that mining activities lead to community upliftment and sustainable economic development, rather than perpetuating a cycle of dependency on mining. Dhawa also addressed the concept of beneficiation frameworks, emphasizing the need for creative solutions that are tailored to the specific conditions of each country. While downstream beneficiation can be a valuable strategy in some cases, it may not be the right approach everywhere. Factors such as market size, feedstock availability, and infrastructure play a crucial role in determining the viability of beneficiation initiatives. In conclusion, Dhawa urged policymakers and mines ministers to make a firm commitment to the prosperity of both the industry and the people. While the path to responsible mining may vary from country to country, the ultimate goal remains the same: to create a sustainable future where communities thrive beyond the lifespan of mining activities. By embracing innovation, creativity, and a holistic approach, the mining sector in Africa has the potential to drive positive change and economic growth while safeguarding the environment and local communities.