The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) has lent its support to 11 of the country’s emerging miners, who will showcase their products at the Investing in African Mining Indaba that gets underway in Cape Town today.
The 11 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which hail from various parts of the country, were supported through the dti’s Sector Specific Assistance Scheme. The companies will showcase at the National Pavilion, where they will be afforded opportunities to meet prospective buyers and investors.
Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies said the Indaba provides a global perspective on African mining, giving an opportunity for government to utilise it to the advantage of its private sector.
The Minister said it is important that there is collaboration between business and government.
“The event is also a huge marketing opportunity for South Africa to highlight its investment opportunities in this sector,” said the Minister.
Supporting emerging miners and mining related services, Minister Davies said, is part of the country’s Industrial Policy Action Plan and the National Beneficiation Strategy.
He said the mining and capital equipment sector is an important component of the country’s industrialisation objectives.
“As government, we are committed to working with the industry to achieving these goals,” said Minister Davies on Friday.
The Investing in Africa Mining Indaba is the world's largest gathering of most influential stakeholders in the African mining industry. These range from global mining and exploration companies, international investors, investment banks, mining equipment companies and mining services providers. It attracts approximately 7 000 delegates.
The Indaba, which is taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, will conclude on Thursday. - SAnews.gov.za
