GMG Johannesburg Forum – Program
Published: February 14,2025March 12 (AM) - Harnessing AI and Applications of Data
Harnessing AI in Mining: Strategies, Ethical Considerations, and Real-World Applications
Louis Coetzee, Senior Manager (Data and Artificial Intelligence), Accenture
The integration of AI in mining has enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and minimized environmental impact. AI technologies optimize exploration and extraction, enabling informed decision-making and sustainability. However, responsible AI adoption is crucial to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Challenges like data quality, process complexity, and workforce skills remain obstacles. This talk explores AI strategy in mining, highlighting responsible adoption, ethical implications, real-world applications, and key challenges to support successful implementation.
The Role of AI in the Future of Mining – From Hype to Practical Impact
Fanie Terblanche, Mining Director, Elytica, a subsidiary of Epiroc
There is significant perceived value in applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various industries, including mining. This presentation provides an overview of AI’s evolution and how its development has influenced technology adoption in the sector. We will distinguish between the hype surrounding AI and its practical applications, drawing lessons from other industries. Particular attention will be given to how AI can advance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives and contribute to sustainable mining practices. Practical examples will illustrate AI’s role in optimizing resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing workplace safety—demonstrating how AI can help mining operations achieve meaningful and measurable progress toward sustainability goals.
Panel: Harnessing AI and Applications of Data in Mining
AI is revolutionizing mining by enabling predictive maintenance, optimizing resource allocation, and advancing autonomous haulage and mineral exploration. This panel will explore AI readiness in the sector, including infrastructure, workforce upskilling, and ethical considerations. Experts will discuss practical strategies for AI adoption, its role in driving sustainability through energy optimization and emissions reduction, and insights from other industries. Attendees will gain actionable knowledge on integrating AI into operations while balancing innovation, efficiency, and responsible implementation.
Moderator: Gargi Mishra, Advisory Council Member, Women in Mining Business, WiMBIZ SA
Panelists:
- M. Ahsan Mahboob, Head of Sibanye-Stillwater Digital Mining Laboratory, Acting Director of the Wits Mining Institute (WMI), Wits Digimine
- Shaun Vorster, Partner, Forvis Mazars
AI in Mining: Tackling Industry Challenges with Smart Solutions (Working Session)
As the industry navigates increasing complexities—ranging from operational inefficiencies and workforce shortages to sustainability goals and real-time decision-making—AI and data analytics are proving to be game-changers. Participants will work together to identify actionable strategies for integrating AI into mining operations.
March 12 (PM) - Decarbonization and Electrification: The Path Forward
Decarbonization Strategy Overview
Mining Company TBA
Decarbonization: Working Together on Practical Solutions (Working Session)
Now only five years away from 2030, what is it going to take to achieve those emissions targets and beyond? During this working session participants will work together to identify practical solutions to achieve success.
Presentation Title TBD
Itumeleng Mogatusi-Sekgota, Sustainability Planning and Pathways Specialist, Anglo American
Case Study on Electrification – Road to Net Zero
Andrew Scott, Ambassador, GMG
Panel: Energy Management, Decarbonization, and South Africa’s Energy Strategy
This session will focus on technical and operational strategies for reducing mining’s carbon footprint through energy efficiency, electrification, and alternative energy sources like hydrogen, solar, and wind. Panelists will examine South Africa’s unique energy landscape as both a producer and consumer, alongside regulatory and policy considerations impacting energy transitions. Attendees will gain actionable insights into optimizing energy use, integrating renewables, and navigating decarbonization pathways while maintaining operational efficiency.
Moderator: Stan Pillay, Lead – Carbon and Innovation, Anglo American
Panelists:
- Brian Huff, Vice President of New Technologies, Sandvik
- Sudhir Thakurdin, Senior Process Engineer, Hatch
- Thabani Mlilo, Adjunct Professor, University of Cape Town and Managing Director at Moahi Sustainable Solutions
March 13 (AM) - New Technologies and Approaches for Maximum Impact
Technology Adoption in Mining: Lessons from Research and Practice
Matete Shoroma, Senior Mining Engineer, De Beers
This presentation combines key learnings from my recent Master’s dissertation, titled “Influencing Emerging Technology Adoption in the Mining Industry Through Employee and Organisation Readiness,” with practical insights from the implementation of an automated drill rig (development and long hole) and loaders (with tele-remote capabilities) at Venetia Underground Mine. By integrating research findings with real-world case studies, the session will highlight the challenges, enablers, and lessons learned in driving emerging technology adoption in mining.
Exploring the Untapped Potential of Immersive Technologies for the Mining Industry
Ashley Nell, Consultant, Realm Digital
Immersive technologies like Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality are opening bold new opportunities in the mining industry. From transforming training to improving safety and performance, these tools are changing the way operations run.
Panel: Enabling Value From Emerging Technology
This panel will explore how mining companies can maximize the value of emerging technologies such as automation, AI, and digitalization. Experts will discuss overcoming implementation challenges, ensuring interoperability, and driving measurable improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, and safety. Attendees will gain insights into real-world applications, industry standards, and strategies for optimizing technology investments in mining operations.
Moderator: Hugh Maleka, Manager – Marketing Engagement, Ramjack
Panelists:
- Gargi Mishra, Advisory Council Member, Women in Mining Business, WiMBIZ SA
- Joseph Kwiri, Specialist Mining Engineer in Resource Optimization, Anglo American
- Kabelo Nkoana, Business Line Manager for Digital Mining Technologies, Sandvik
Achieving Value through New Technology: Are you Ready? (Working Session)
Industry is striving to increase productivity with improved safety and environmental performance. New technologies are emerging and mining companies are committed to progress within the next few years. What will it take to be prepared to embrace new technologies and processes? We need to work together and help build the new paradigm for mine operations.
March 13 (PM) - Achieving Value Through Full Site Integration
Achieving Value Through Full Site Integration
Hulisani Mabe, Digital Technology Specialist, Geology and Mining, AngloGold Ashanti
Geometallurgy, the key to unlocking the mining value chain – a Kumba Iron Ore case study
Marushnee Govender, Principal for Mining Geology and Geometallurgy, Kumba Iron Ore
Geometallurgy is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to understanding and predicting the behavior of rocks within mining and metallurgical processes. Its primary goal is to optimize value and mitigate risks throughout the mining value chain. At Kumba Iron Ore, the adoption of geometallurgy has been a collaborative process involving technical disciplines and mining execution. This transformation required a shift in mindset and the breaking down of traditional technical silos. This presentation outlines the journey from inception to the implementation of geometallurgical models, which play a crucial role in optimizing mining and beneficiation processes.
Shifting to a Systems Approach to Mine Design and Operations (Working Session)
This workshop will highlight how adopting a systems-based approach can transform mine design and operations, improving efficiency, sustainability, risk management, and long-term value, while fostering greater resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. Participants will define key elements such as data integration, stakeholder collaboration, operational flexibility, and consideration of environmental and social factors, and explore how these elements work together to create a more holistic approach.
Enhancing Mine Productivity and Safety Through Remote Operations Centres: Ramjack’s Experience
Hugh Maleka, Manager – Marketing Engagement, Ramjack
This presentation will focus on practical insights and lessons learned from global mining deployments.
Panel: Seamless Operations – Achieving Value Through Full Site Integration
Mining operations are most effective when ore body knowledge, mine planning, production, and processing are seamlessly connected, yet siloed decision-making and disconnected systems often create inefficiencies. This panel will explore how companies can break down these barriers by improving data flow, interoperability, and collaboration across the mine cycle. Experts will discuss strategies for aligning geology with operations, optimizing material flow, and ensuring that people, processes, and technology work together to maximize efficiency and value. Attendees will gain insights into practical approaches for achieving full-site integration to drive sustainable and resilient mining operations.
Moderator: Phuthego Moganedi, Head of Business Improvement, Fraser Alexander
Panelists:
- Matete Shoroma, Senior Mining Engineer, De Beers
- Ntokozo Nyathi, Technical Specialist, Anglo American
- Sandy-Lee White, Manager Execution Excellence, Ramjack
- Thessy Moodley, Regional Director, Hatch