Two major African mining economies’ presidents addressed the Investing in African Mining Indaba in South Africa, this year.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana shared their thoughts with audience of government representatives, investors, mining companies, the media, NGOs and others.
“This Indaba offers us a valuable opportunity to engage with investors from across the globe seeking opportunities for new and further investment in the mining industry on our continent.
“It is important that investors are here to create value for shareholders and become partners on a journey of inclusive development,” said Ramaphosa.
He said the days of conflict between the industry and government, between industry and labour and communities should belong to the past.
“There must be more collaboration, co-operation, consensus building and working together,” said Ramaphosa.
Ramaphosa said Mining Indaba should be used to strengthen collaborative efforts aimed at regional integration, as government plays its role in creating an environment in which mining thrives for the benefit of all its people.
“We are committed to the mining industry. This is a sunrise industry. We would like you as investors, operators, managers, chief executors to see your own industry as a sunrise industry. Come join us,” said Ramaphosa.
Sharing his sentiments Akufo-Addo called for collaboration to create shared and inclusive value for all stakeholders.
“Mining is a necessity, not just an indulgence. We must strike deals that are fair to both sides. Negotiations between companies and governments should be transparent, and accessible and easily understandable by citizens.
We know that the extractive sector can be the champion of economic growth on the continent – it has great potential for job creation and can form the basis for transformation.”
He said Ghana’s hope is to establish an equitable balance between government and needs of the investor community.
“It is time for the mineral sector to produce win-win situation for all stakeholders.”
