To locate mineral resources globally and lay the groundwork to introduce the applicable solutions in Africa, mining and exploration advisory company DMT Group is using advanced technology and strict sustainability practices.

The company has developed methods, such as wireless 3D seismic systems, which produce detailed images of underground rock formations and detect mineralised zones below the surface.

These systems are supported by AI and machine learning tools that analyse data, identify patterns and rank targets by mineral potential, making exploration more precise and efficient.

While these advanced methods are widely used globally, multi-disciplinary consultancy firm DMT Kai Batla mining financial advisory global executive Sanjey Bhoowanpursadh says they are not yet common in Africa, where exploration typically focuses on shallow deposits using lower-cost tools.

Although higher expenses associated with modern technology, a shortage of technical expertise and lengthy government approval processes have been barriers to adoption, DMT Kai Batla aims to change this by helping junior miners overcome two critical obstacles: funding constraints and regulatory compliance.

The company offers independent technical and financial assessments to validate investments and derisk projects, adds Bhoowanpursadh.

“This includes quality project reports, expert opinions, valuations and detailed cash flow forecasts that make projects credible to financiers.”

Improving investor confidence and allowing for access to funding will create the financial space for miners to deploy more advanced exploration technologies in Africa.

“We also provide financial advisory on loans, market trends and risk strategies to help junior miners secure capital and plan for long-term success,” elaborates Bhoowanpursadh.

Further, DMT integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles from the start of projects – a key requirement for regulatory approvals and community acceptance.

The company also prepares documentation that meets international and local standards, develops mine-closure and waste-management strategies, and implements measures to reduce carbon emissions.

“These practices not only ensure compliance but also strengthen the social licence to operate, reducing delays that often deter investment in high-tech exploration,” he explains.

Community Engagement

Community engagement remains central to DMT Kai Batla’s app-roach, with projects including strategies for local hiring, training and procurement while safeguarding sensitive ecosystems, states Bhoowanpursadh.

“Regular stakeholder consultations allow for early conflict resolution and ensure cultural and environmental considerations are respected.”

Although South Africa faces challenges, such as deep geology, legacy environmental issues and slow permitting, Bhoowanpursadh believes that long-term opportunity outweighs these hurdles.

“The country has underexplored areas rich in minerals critical for the energy transition, strong infrastructure and skilled labour. By aligning funding, ESG and regulatory strategies, we are creating an environment where advanced exploration technologies can be introduced successfully.”

As demand for critical minerals accelerates, DMT Kai Batla has positioned itself not only as a technical innovator but also an enabler: “We are here to bridge the gap between global best practice and African realities to unlock the continent’s mineral potential,” he concludes.