Every day, I read the newswires. To be brutally honest, I am tired of reading the bad news. I am tired of reading about crime rates, instances of corruption and human trafficking, all of which affect the mining sector.

I don’t want the president to announce another commission of enquiry which leads to nowhere while those implicated continue to hold office. This includes our very own Gwede Mantashe, who is opposing his implications in the Zondo Commission in court.

Where is the silver lining? Who will turn things around? Who will give us a glimmer of hope that all is not lost?

ALSO READ:
Another commission of inquiry, while mining continues to suffer from the mafia

Then it struck me. Over the past six years, I have had the opportunity to speak to varous stakeholders in the mining sector which gives me hope.
That’s because mining is not just about making profit and leaving a hole in the ground where communities suffer the negative repercussions long after mine closure. In my conversations, I have realised that there is a paradigm shift and that companies are fully committed to mining responsibly and sustainability, thereby ensuring that mining benefits those living on the African continent.

However, they cannot do this alone. What is required is a commitment from governments to attract investment and reward companies for their contribution to the African mining sector. Such a contribution is not only about mining our vast resources. It is about the impact it can have to ensure a better life for all in Africa.