The successful integration of innovation and localisation requires collaboration between mining companies, local manufacturers, educational and research institutions, and local government. This collaboration creates a synergistic ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.

The effect of co-operation can be evidenced whenever an industry competes in sophisticated ways resulting in increased innovation, localisation, productivity and new business development and successful commercialisation.

Historically poorer countries lack well-developed industry clusters; they compete in the world market with cheap labor and natural resources. The development of well-functioning clusters with high levels of competition and collaboration is essential to move beyond this phase.

Mining Equipment Manufacturers of SA (MEMSA), the SA Mineral Processing Equipment Cluster (SAMPEC) – both member-based cluster organisations, together with the Mandela Mining Precinct (MMP) will come together at this years’ Electra Mining Africa, taking place at Nasrec 2-6 September, on a pavilion strategically located in the Local Southern Africa Manufacturers Expo, Hall 10.

Member companies: MEM Works, Reutech Mining, Manhattan Corporation, Hydro Power Systems (HPS), Mine Support Products (MSP), Bird Machines, Songatech and AZMET Technology and Projects will exhibit alongside MMP research partners Integrated Mining Technologies, Ramjack Technologies, PwC, Digital Twin (Pty) Ltd, and Stratafy, to demonstrate just a few of the local technologies and capabilities developed in the country.

MiningTARA (Technology Availability Readiness Atlas), a collaboration between the MMP and MEMSA will also be on display at the expo. The on-line portal showcases mining equipment, software and systems developed and manufactured in South Africa, and serves as a procurement resource for the mining industry in South Africa, and the continent. MiningTARA is further positioned to foster the innovation and the modernisation of mining in South Africa by linking developers, investors and markets.

Through the development of a hub of technology collaborators, and the nurturing of local talent MEMSA and SAMPEC seek to support member companies in their local and global competitiveness.

“The enduring competitive advantages in a global economy lie increasingly in local things—knowledge, relationships, motivation—that distant rivals cannot match.” Harvard Business Review

Economic diversification, the reduced dependency on foreign expertise and product, and enhanced resilience of the mining industry to external shock relies on a robust, secure and competitive local supply chain.

“The MMP continues to serve as the hub between research, technology development, and localisation, all critical for driving innovation and sustainable growth in the mining sector of South Africa. By investing in these interconnected pillars, the DSI and the Minerals Council of South Africa seek to collaboratively unlock the full potential of the sector, while fostering inclusive development and environmental stewardship,” says Julie Courtnage Executive Director, MMP.

Clustering remains a vital strategy for localisation in the South African mining supply chain. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, South Africa can ensure that its mining industry remains competitive on a global scale while driving economic development, social stability, and environmental sustainability.

The combined efforts of mining companies, local manufacturers, educational and research institutions, and the government can create a synergistic environment that benefits all stakeholders and contributes to the broader development of the country.