Junior Indaba 2026 to spotlight Africa’s junior mining future
In an era where the mineral resources sector stands at a crossroads in Africa, the 12th annual Junior Indaba 2026 is set to convene on June 9-10 at the Country Club Johannesburg, Auckland Park, as well as online. This influential gathering will see industry leaders from Botswana, Angola, and Zambia come together to delve into crucial discussions surrounding the prospects and challenges facing the junior mining sector across the continent.
The Junior Indaba aims to explore a burning question nagging at the core of this dynamic industry: “Where are the best opportunities for junior mining in Africa today?” The answers to this query will be discussed throughout the two-day event, as stakeholders examine significant challenges that affect operations for junior miners not only in Southern Africa but across the continent. Notable among these obstacles are policy uncertainty, infrastructure constraints, energy insecurity, limited access to capital, skills shortages, and complex supply chains.
Bernard Swanepoel, the Chair of the Junior Indaba, emphasised the significance of this year’s event. “Junior mining is increasingly an African growth story. Botswana, Angola, and Zambia each offer different lessons in geology, policy, investment, and execution, and it is important that we hear directly from the people closest to those markets,” said Swanepoel. His comments highlight the focus on practical engagement that has shaped the Junior Indaba since its inception.
The event promises an impressive lineup of speakers, including Charles Siwawa, CEO of the Botswana Chamber of Mines; José Sumbula da Silva Calamba, Vice President of the Chamber of Mines of Angola; and Sokwani Chilembo, CEO of the Zambia Chamber of Mines. These leaders are set to share invaluable insights that can influence policy and investment within their respective sectors. Moderating these discussions will be Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of Minerals Council South Africa, who will guide conversations aimed at navigating the evolving landscape of junior mining.
Presented by Resources 4 Africa, the Junior Indaba 2026 is celebrated for its strong connections to key industry stakeholders and sponsors. Offering support as Lead Sponsors are DRA Global and ENS, while the Minerals Council South Africa acts as the Mining Industry Partner. Networking opportunities and collaborative discussions will be further enhanced by the involvement of consulting groups, including Bara Consulting, the Council for Geoscience, Fraser McGill, Junior Mining Council, and The SSC Group.
This year’s Junior Indaba is more than shaping the future of junior mining in Africa. By gathering influential leaders and fostering open dialogue, the event aims to sow the seeds for actionable solutions and opportunities that can drive growth across the sector.
