Mining Indaba 2026 draws Africa’s power brokers to Cape Town as the continent reimagines its mining future

By Rejoice Ndlovu

Cape Town has once again become the focal point of the global mining industry as Mining Indaba 2026 officially opens today, bringing together thousands of delegates from across Africa and around the world. Taking place from 9 to 12 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the gathering comes at a pivotal time when Africa’s mineral resources are increasingly central to global supply chains, industrialisation, and the energy transition.

Now in its thirty second year, the Investing in African Mining Indaba has grown into far more than an investment conference. It is a high-level platform where political leaders, mining executives, investors, development institutions, and community representatives converge to influence policy, unlock capital and shape the future of the continent’s mining sector. This year’s theme, Stronger Together Progress Through Partnerships, reflects a shared recognition that collaboration is essential for long term success.

High level political leadership is a defining feature of this year’s event. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is among the continental leaders participating, reinforcing the importance of policy certainty, regional cooperation, and investor confidence in driving Africa’s mining ambitions forward.

South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to play a key role on 11 February, when he delivers a keynote address at the SAYEC Fourth Annual Mining and Business Dialogue Day, held on the sidelines of Mining Indaba. His address will focus on unlocking South Africa’s critical minerals advantage, driving investment and promoting value addition as the country positions itself for a more competitive and resilient mining future.

The session is anticipated to draw strong interest from investors and industry leaders seeking clarity on South Africa’s strategic direction in critical minerals.

The global development and finance community is also well represented, with senior officials from the World Bank Group participating in discussions around infrastructure financing, sustainable mining, and responsible investment. Their involvement highlights the growing alignment between development finance institutions and Africa’s push to leverage mining as a driver of broader economic development.

Mining Indaba 2026 has also attracted executives from major international and African mining companies, junior explorers, and institutional investors. Throughout the week, closed door meetings and networking sessions are facilitating discussions on project financing, exploration opportunities, mergers, and partnerships, reinforcing the event’s status as Africa’s most influential mining investment platform.

Across the four-day programme, key sessions are tackling the most pressing issues facing the sector. Critical minerals such as lithium, copper, and cobalt feature prominently, reflecting Africa’s expanding role in supplying materials essential for renewable energy, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing.

These conversations are closely linked to debates on industrialisation and beneficiation, with speakers exploring how African countries can retain more value through local processing, manufacturing, and skills development.

Technology, innovation, and human capital development are also in sharp focus. Sessions on digitalisation, automation and future ready skills are paired with initiatives aimed at empowering young professionals, signalling an industry intent on building a workforce equipped for modern, sustainable mining operations.

A notable highlight of Mining Indaba 2026 is the continued elevation of community voices. Community leaders and civil society representatives are actively contributing to discussions on social licence, environmental responsibility, and shared value. Their participation reinforces the message that sustainable mining is inseparable from meaningful community engagement and long-term local impact.

Beyond the formal sessions, Cape Town is alive with deal making and dialogue. From early morning strategy meetings to evening networking events, the city has become a hub of ideas, ambition, and collaboration. The conversations unfolding this week are shaping not only immediate investment decisions but also the long-term narrative of Africa’s mining future.