THE MINING WRAP

Sandvik has acquired ThoroughTec Simulation, a Durban-based provider of OEM-agnostic mining simulators used for training operators across surface and underground fleets. The acquisition adds simulation software and performance analytics to Sandvik’s existing equipment portfolio. Mines are using these systems to measure operator efficiency, reduce equipment misuse and lower incident rates. The integration allows real-time performance tracking and targeted skills improvement across large fleets.

Glencore reviews DRC copper-cobalt stake

Glencore is in discussions to sell a stake in its copper-cobalt assets in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which would lower capital exposure while retaining operational control. These assets account for a significant share of the country’s copper and cobalt output, metals central to electric vehicle battery supply chains and power infrastructure development. Any adjustment in ownership would therefore influence both Glencore’s portfolio structure and the availability of strategically important battery materials from the DRC.

Gold Candle expands in Abitibi

Gold Candle Ltd. has agreed to acquire Fokus Mining Corporation for US$65 million in Canada. The transaction strengthens its position in Quebec’s Abitibi gold belt, one of the country’s most established gold-producing regions with existing processing infrastructure and transport access. The acquisition adds defined gold resources and development-stage projects within Canada, extending the company’s North American production pipeline.

Marula Mining increases manganese exposure

Marula Mining has signed an agreement to acquire a 50–70% stake in the Tonto Tshipi Manganese Mine in South Africa. The transaction includes processing equipment designed to produce higher-grade manganese concentrate for export markets. The stake gives Marula operational influence in one of the country’s established manganese-producing regions and provides direct exposure to revenue from an advanced-stage South African asset.

Critical minerals and battery metals

Zijin advances Manono lithium timeline

Zijin Mining plans to begin lithium production from the Manono deposit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in mid-2026. The project expands the DRC’s mineral output beyond copper and cobalt. Manono is considered one of the largest hard-rock lithium deposits globally. Initial production will feed battery material supply chains.

Bannerman secures Etango uranium funding

Bannerman Energy has secured a US$321 million funding package for its Etango uranium project in Namibia. The financing moves the project closer to construction. Etango is one of the largest undeveloped uranium deposits globally and would increase Namibia’s annual uranium output once in production. The funding package reduces execution uncertainty at a time when utilities are seeking long-term uranium supply contracts.

Namibia reinforces local value addition

Namibia is expected to finalise amendments to its Minerals Bill reinforcing restrictions on exporting unprocessed lithium and cobalt. The draft legislation may introduce majority local ownership requirements in certain cases. The measures would require greater in-country processing before export.

Gabon pushes manganese export ban timeline

The government of Gabon has confirmed that its 2029 deadline to halt raw manganese exports remains unchanged. The policy aims to increase domestic refining capacity. The decision may alter export volumes and trade flows over the next four years.

Energy and infrastructure

B2Gold and Barloworld showcase off-grid operations

B2Gold and Barloworld Equipment referenced operations at the Otjikoto gold mine in Namibia, where the site runs on a self-managed hybrid power system rather than relying on the national grid. The configuration combines on-site generation and storage to supply continuous electricity for processing plants and heavy equipment. By operating independently of grid supply, the mine reduces exposure to national power constraints and protects output consistency a key factor in maintaining production targets and cost control in Southern Africa’s energy environment.

FQM partners on hydropower in Zambia

First Quantum Minerals has partnered with Anzana Electric Group to develop up to 50 megawatts of baseload hydropower in Zambia. The project will supply dedicated power to copper operations. On-site generation reduces reliance on national utility supply and supports cost predictability.

South32 places Mozal on care and maintenance

South32 will place its Mozal aluminium plant in Mozambique on care and maintenance due to persistent power shortages. Aluminium smelting requires continuous high-load electricity. Extended power constraints made operations uneconomic under current conditions.

Technology, automation and digital mining

ABB promotes gearless grinding systems

ABB continues deploying gearless mill drive systems at large-scale processing plants. The systems eliminate mechanical gear components, improving energy transfer efficiency and reducing mechanical wear. Milling accounts for a large portion of site power consumption, making efficiency gains material to operating costs.

Metso expands automation portfolio

Metso has acquired MRA Automation to expand its automation and bulk material handling capabilities. The integration adds control systems and monitoring software to Metso’s processing solutions. Automated systems reduce manual intervention and unplanned downtime.

Fleet Space deploys AI subsurface imaging

CopperTech Metals has partnered with Fleet Space Technologies to deploy the ExoSphere platform at Konkola Copper Mines. The system combines satellite connectivity and machine-learning models to generate subsurface imaging data. Faster interpretation of geological structures reduces unnecessary drilling expenditure.

Glencore trials remote safety systems

Glencore’s McArthur River Mine has trialled RCT’s Remote Shutdown System on bulldozers and graders. The technology allows operators to remotely stop equipment during hazardous events. The system reduces direct human exposure in high-risk zones.

Bell Equipment advances fleet interoperability

Bell Equipment is expanding interoperability across its articulated dump trucks and graders. The integration allows equipment to transmit data into shared fleet management systems. Centralised data improves maintenance planning and utilisation tracking.

Policy and production trends

Mali establishes state mining company

The government of Mali has created a state-owned mining company to manage equity stakes in projects. The entity consolidates government shareholdings under a single structure. This allows the state to coordinate participation across multiple licences and renegotiate terms where necessary.

South Africa records modest output growth

Mining production in South Africa increased year-on-year in December 2025, driven by iron ore and manganese. Annual growth remained limited due to weaker output in other commodities. The data points to selective strength rather than sector-wide expansion.

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