Modern Mining November 2026

ODERN M INING For people who are serious about mining NOVEMBER 2026 | Vol 21 No 11

IN THIS ISSUE

 Africa: A New Lithium Frontier?  HiveKit looks to Africa for its next phase of growth

 Trinity Metals eyes major growth in tungsten and tin production  Integrated Pump Technology continues its rapid growth trajectory  E ngineering behind the iron: The real cost of slurry pump performance  West Africa embraces Weir’s digital advances for productivity, sustainability

Driving Sustainable Partnerships HOW IS SEW-EURODRIVE DRIVING SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIPS? Bringing together advanced drive technologies, automation, digital innovation and engineering expertise to demonstrate how operations can be optimised from commissioning through to long‑term asset management. Gain insight into integrated solutions designed to enhance productivity, reliability and sustainability, while enabling more efficient, future‑ready operations

across mining, materials handling and various industrial environments. Complemented by robust aftermarket support, repair capabilities and reverse engineering expertise, SEW‑EURODRIVE remains committed to improving plant efficiency and delivering lasting operational value.

COVER 8 The real cost of slurry pump performance

COMMODITIES OUTLOOK 12 Africa: A New Lithium Frontier?

CRITICAL MINERALS 14 Trinity Metals eyes major growth in tungsten and tin production

TECHNOLOGY 18 HiveKit looks to Africa for its next phase of growth

WEST AFRICA 22 West Africa embraces Weir’s digital advances for productivity, sustainability 24 Martin Engineering expands West African partnerships PUMPS & VALVES 26 Integrated Pump Technology continues its rapid growth trajectory 28 FLS evolves KREBS pump technology to meet rising on-mine demands 30 Advanced slurry pump demonstration for Electra Mining Africa 2026 ELECTRA MINING 32 Sandvik’s innovation drive aligned with mine safety drive 34 Building the capability for Africa’s mining future beyond the orebody

MATERIALS HANDLING 36 Liebherr-Africa strengthens excavator portfolio with the R 992 37 ContiTech strengthens conveying solutions business in the Middle East 38 Why the factory isn’t where South Africa wins in the mining tyre value chain 40 Multotec marks 25 years in Zambia, expands in-country manufacturing

ODERN M INING For people who are serious about mining NOVEMBER 2026 | Vol 21 No 11

REGULARS MINING NEWS 4 Sibanye-Stillwater lists on A2X

Rainbow signs MoU with Neo Performance Materials 5 Thakadu launches IXS-PurePlus Nickel Sulphate New era for South African agriculture 6 Serval commencement of exploration programme at Duékoué 7 Kazera Global 2A Mining Right executed and Board changes

ON THE COVER Schurco Slurry talks on the real cost of slurry pump performance (Page 8)

IN THIS ISSUE

 Africa: A New Lithium Frontier?  HiveKit looks to Africa for its next phase of growth

 Trinity Metals eyes major growth in tungsten and tin production  Integrated Pump Technology continues its rapid growth trajectory  engineering behind the iron: The real cost of slurry pump performance  West Africa embraces Weir’s digital advances for productivity, sustainability

November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  1

Written into the history book W hat an accolade for Navanetham “Navi” Pillay, a South African jurist, who won the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her work promoting peace and international law, from opposing apartheid to serving on international courts. She served as the United Nations High

of Mineral and Petroleum Resources) and Sipho Nkosi (Former Exxaro CEO). Rare Earths And speaking of rare occurrences, Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine (SMM) officially opened Phase 1 of the Steenkampskraal project. Phase 1 crushes and mills ore, then upgrades it by gravity separation and flotation to a monazite concentrate for the export market. SMM says it has secured several offtake agreements for its concentrate. First shipments are planned before the end of 2026. “In June, with Mintek, we produced high- purity mixed rare earth products and became the first African country to achieve this through a partnership between a mine and a national research institution, Mintek. The plant now turns that science into a saleable monazite concentrate. Beneficiation is no longer a slogan at Steenkampskraal. Production is under way,” said Dr Enock Mathebula, Executive Chairman of SMM. Interestingly, Rainbow Rare Earths is also plotting its pathway to production on its flagship Phalaborwa project in the Limpopo Province

Commissioner for Human Rights from 2008 to 2014 and was the first non-white female judge of the High Court of South Africa. Pillay, who dedicated her prize to “survivors of international crime”, was president of the international tribunal on Rwanda’s genocide between the late 1990s and early 2000s. More recently, she was part of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, created by the UN Human Rights Council in 2021. Including Pillay, the total number of South Africans awarded the Nobel Peace Prize rises to five. The other four laureates are: Albert Luthuli (1960): Former President of the ANC and a prominent leader in the anti-apartheid struggle,

Desmond Tutu (1984): Anglican Archbishop and influential anti- apartheid activist, Nelson Mandela (1993): Anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa and F.W. de Klerk (1993): Former President of South

Steenkampskraal plant now turns that science into a

and its Uberaba project in Brazil. The company is targeting production at Phalaborwa by 2029 and production from Uberaba at the end of 2030 (For this story read the February 2027 edition of

saleable monazite concentrate. Beneficiation is no longer a slogan at Steenkampskraal. Production is under way.

Africa who played a key role in ending apartheid. On the topic of powerful women, Natascha Viljoen, a South African business executive and CEO of

Nelendhre Moodley.

( Modern Mining ).

Editor: Nelendhre Moodley e-mail: mining@crown.co.za Advertising Manager: Rynette Joubert

In this edition The November edition of Modern Mining features a lithium outlook titled, Africa: A New Lithium Frontier (Pg 12) alongside coverage of Rwanda-based Trinity Metals’ planned major expansion in tungsten and tin production over the next three-to-five years. Modern Mining spoke to CEO Peter Geleta (see pg 14). Hivekit, a US-based mining technology company, which recently announced OPS.AI, a new technology that proactively coordinates and optimises mine operations, is eyeing entry into the African continent, targeting South Africa and Tanzania as its first points of entry (pg 18). Also noteworthy is a story by Weir highlighting how mining operations across West Africa are increasingly adopting its integrated digital ecosystem, which now extends beyond the traditional processing plant (pg 22). n

Newmont Corporation since January 2026, was inducted into the Joburg Indaba Mining Hall of Fame at the opening of the event on October 6. The honour recognises her more than 30 years of leadership in the mining industry, spanning mining and processing operations. She is the first woman to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and previously served as CEO of Anglo American Platinum, now known as Valterra Platinum. Viljoen joins the close to 20 key inductees including amongst others: July Ndlovu (Thungela Resources CEO, inducted in 2025), Roger Baxter (former Minerals Council South Africa CEO, inducted in 2024), Mark Cutifani (former Anglo American CEO, inducted in 2019), Neal Froneman (Sibanye-Stillwater CEO), Patrice Motsepe (African Rainbow Minerals founder), Gwede Mantashe (Minister

e-mail: rynettej@crown.co.za Design & Layout: Ano Shumba Publisher: Karen Grant

Deputy Publisher: Wilhelm du Plessis Circulation: Brenda Grossmann and Shaun Smith Published monthly by: Crown Publications (Pty) Ltd P O Box 140, Bedfordview, 2008 Tel: (+27 11) 622-4770 Fax: (+27 11) 615-6108 e-mail: mining@crown.co.za www.modernminingmagazine.co.za

Printed by: Tandym Print

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.

Average circulation Jan-Mar 2024: 10 696

2  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | November 2026

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MINING NEWS

Sibanye-Stillwater lists on A2X Precious metals miner, Sibanye-Stillwater (market cap: R117 billion) was approved for a secondary listing on A2X Markets with

trading from 6 November 2026. The company is a global mining and metals processing group with operations, projects and investments across five continents. The group is one of the world’s largest producers and refiners of platinum group metals and a top-tier gold producer. Sibanye- Stillwater has also diversified into mining and processing battery metals and has increased its presence in the circular economy by expanding its recycling and secondary-mining exposure globally. Sibanye-Stillwater’s operations span Southern Africa, North America, Europe and Australia. A2X CEO Kevin Brady said, “We’re delighted to welcome Sibanye-Stillwater to A2X. This listing reflects the growing confidence issuers have in A2X as a credible, cost-effective secondary market, and gives investors greater choice in how they access one of South Africa’s leading

Sibanye-Stillwater lists on A2X.

with a combined market capitalisation of over R12 trillion. The company retains its listing on the JSE, and its issued share capital will be unaffected by its secondary listing on A2X. A2X is regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and the Prudential Authority (SARB) in terms of the Financial Markets Act. n

mining companies.” Sibanye-Stillwater joins other mining companies with secondary listings on A2X, including Goldfields, Impala Platinum, Harmony and AngloGold Ashanti. Sibanye-Stillwater’s listing will bring the instruments available for trade on A2X to 167, including 31 Top 40 constituents,

Rainbow signs MoU with Neo Performance Materials

Rainbow Rare Earths recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TSX-listed Neo Performance Materials for technical support and design input for Rainbow’s final solvent extraction (SX) separation circuit for the Phalaborwa project in South Africa. The final separation circuit is expected to deliver separated NdPr oxide at >99% purity and a mixed SEG+ heavy rare earth carbonate, containing dysprosium and terbium as well as other heavy rare earth elements, suitable for further separation at Neo’s facilities. In return for the use of Neo’s SX technology, Rainbow will provide offtake rights to Neo on commercial terms covering 40% of NdPr and 65% of SEG+ production from Phalaborwa. Neo is a leader in rare earth separation technology; test work using Rainbow’s high-grade REE solution is underway at Neo’s facilities in Estonia. This decision will enable the release of a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) in Q4, allowing Rainbow to update the market on the economics of the Phalaborwa project and incorporating the initial SX test work, ahead of a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) in H1 2027. The PFS will allow Rainbow to progress both financing and permitting workstreams for Phalaborwa in support of the overall project development timeline. George Bennett, CEO of Rainbow, commented: “Finalising our technology partner for the SX separation process was the remaining step required to complete the definition of our process to extract REEs from

Core drilling for bulk density and resource definition at Phalaborwa.

phosphogypsum waste. We are delighted that Neo has agreed to partner with us - their deep understanding and experience in rare earth separation and magnet materials is invaluable. That they have taken the decision to partner with Rainbow is in line with an aligned strategy to secure a vital, verifiable source of the permanent magnet elements required to satisfy demand for a reliable, secure supply of REEs. The decision to release a PFS will enable us to initiate key project development activities in earnest to support our overall timeline to production and also supports our preparedness in respect of evaluating the opportunity to list in the US, which we believe will be key in unlocking further shareholder value.” n

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Thakadu launches IXS-PurePlus Nickel Sulphate Thakadu Battery Materials has launched IXS-PurePlus, a new ultra-pure

streams and build globally relevant critical-metals processing

nickel sulphate product developed for customers who require cleaner chemistry, tighter impurity control and improved performance in use. The product follows the successful commissioning of a new solvent extraction circuit, integrated into Thakadu’s existing nickel refinery. The upgrade creates Thakadu’s enhanced IXS process flow, delivering nickel sulphate with ultra-low magnesium and best in class purity. IXS-PurePlus has been designed for customers making batteries for electric vehicles, battery energy storage systems and advanced industrial technology applications, where reliability, sustainability and precision are critical. For customers, IXS-PurePlus offers a stronger technical proposition and better value in downstream processing. For partners, suppliers and investors, it demonstrates Thakadu’s

infrastructure in Africa. Thakadu operates Africa’s only battery-grade nickel sulphate refinery. Located within Sibanye- Stillwater’s base metal refinery in South Africa, the plant beneficiates crude nickel sulphate feed from Sibanye-Stillwater’s base metal refinery into higher-value nickel sulphate products for export. “This is a story about innovation and tenacity,” said Ruli Diseko, CEO of Thakadu Battery Materials. “Together with Sibanye- Stillwater, we are showing how Africa can add value to critical metals at source.

Thakadu Battery Materials has launched IXS-PurePlus, a new ultra-pure nickel sulphate product.

IXS-PurePlus is a proud milestone for our team and an exciting product for our customers.” Since entering commercial production in 2021, the Thakadu Refinery has shipped more than 50 000 tonnes of nickel sulphate, together with significant cobalt volumes, to customers across Asia, Europe, the United States and South America. n levels and promote long-term plant productivity. Unlike synthetic fertilisers, which can cause water pollution and soil degradation, soft rock phosphate is a natural product that supports sustainable farming practices. Its on-demand properties minimise the risk of nutrient leaching into water bodies, helping to protect precious natural resources. Kropz plans to increase Nanophos production capacity at its Elandsfontein site in the Western Cape to 180 000 tons per year. Nanophos is unique in South Africa with its phosphate, calcium and silica content in nanoparticle fractions. It is expected to sell at a price 50% lower than mono ammonium phosphate (MAP). Says Kropz CEO Louis Loubser: “It is a South African product that is natural and organic with multiple benefits for the farmers, for crops and ultimately for the consumer. It will have better pricing than the substitute. It has no known negative impacts on human health or on the natural environment. And its mining and production will bring employment that would otherwise not exist.” n

ability to improve product quality, increase value from existing feed

New era for South African agriculture

The entrance into the Nanophos market by phosphate miner and producer Kropz promises to herald a new era for South Africa’s agricultural community. The company believes that Nanophos has the prospect to be a significant contributor to the phosphate market in South Africa

and provide a much-needed solution to the needs of South African farming communities. Nanophos is a natural sedimentary soft rock phosphate, rich in phosphate minerals, calcium and silica, used as an on-demand organic fertiliser to improve soil phosphate

Nanophos has the prospect to be a significant contributor to the phosphate market in South Africa.

MINING NEWS

Serval commencement of exploration programme at Duékoué, Côte d’Ivoire AIM-listed Serval Resources, a company

focused on building an independent copper and future metals developer, announced that field exploration has commenced at its Duékoué copper- gold-molybdenum (Cu-Au-Mo) project in Côte d’Ivoire. The work programme follows completion of a stakeholder and local community engagement programme across the project area, undertaken ahead of mobilisation. CEO, Robin Birchall, commented: “It’s exciting to now have field work underway at all three of our projects in Namibia, Botswana and Côte d’Ivoire. Duékoué is a particularly interesting project given how underexplored this part of Côte d’Ivoire remains for copper, gold and molybdenum. Côte d’Ivoire is already home to some of West Africa’s best-known gold mines, all sitting within the same ancient geological terrain that extends across much of the country, including our licence area at Duékoué. This is some

Serval begins exploration programme at Duékoué, Côte d’Ivoire.

We believe the same underlying potential exists for copper, gold and molybdenum at Duékoué, which is what makes this such a compelling place to be exploring.” n

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6  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | November 2026

Kazera Global 2A Mining Right executed and Board changes AIM-listed Kazera Global has announced that the Mining Right over Sea Concession Kazera’s strategic partnership with SAI. Under the agreement with SAI,

2026 on a temporary basis while the newly constituted Board reviewed the longer-term executive leadership of the Company. As part of that planned transition, Paul Dulieu, was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Kazera with effect from 1 November 2026. Since joining the Board in April, Dulieu has worked closely with Jennings across all the key areas of the business. The Board believes that this close working relationship has contributed significantly to the progress made by Kazera over recent months and provides important continuity as the company moves into its next phase of development.

execution of the Mining Right triggers a further US$1.75 million advance payment to WHM against future production. This follows the US$750 000 advance payment received from SAI in July 2026. SAI is responsible for funding 100% of the capital expenditure, operating costs, infrastructure, equipment deployment and working capital required for the mining and processing operations covered by the agreement, while WHM retains a 20% cost-free entitlement to production. Operational preparations for the development of 2A are continuing, with Kazera and SAI focused on bringing the enlarged South African HMS operations into commercial production during Q1 2027. Production is expected to ramp up progressively, with an initial target of at least 10 000 tonnes per month by Q2 2027 and current operational planning targeting approximately 30 000 tonnes per month thereafter. Executive leadership transition The company announced its planned executive leadership transition, together with the ongoing executive role to be undertaken by Richard Jennings. Richard Jennings was appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer in April

2A (2A), held by the company’s South African subsidiary Whale Head Minerals (WHM), has now been formally executed by the South African Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR). Formal execution represents the completion of the key regulatory process following the grant of the 2A Mining Right announced on 2 September 2026 and triggers a further US$1.75 million advance payment to WHM from South Africa AT Investments (SAI) under the parties’ long- term Mining Cooperation and Production Sharing Agreement. The company also announced changes to its executive management structure, reflecting the next phase of Kazera’s development and building on the close working relationship established between Paul Dulieu, currently a Non-Executive Director of the company, and Richard Jennings since the reconstitution of the Board in April 2026. 2A Mining Right 2A covers approximately 3 095 hectares in the Northern Cape, South Africa and forms the cornerstone of Kazera’s Heavy Mineral Sands (HMS) strategy. The formal execution of the Mining Right enables development of 2A to progress under

Jennings remains on the Board as an Executive Director. n

Whale Head Minerals HMS Pilot Plant.

Execution of the Whale Head Minerals 2A Mining Right at the Northern Cape DMPR on 23 September 2026.

November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  7

COVER STORY

Engineering behind the iron: The real cost of slurry pump performance A pump’s purchase price is visible from the outset. The consequences of its selection emerge over years of operation. Schurco Slurry explains why application knowledge, field validation and ongoing support belong at the centre of procurement decisions.

Slurry characteristics vary between commodities, processing stages and individual plants.

A cross mining and mineral processing, slurry pumps move material through some of the most demanding stages of production. From mill discharge and cyclone feed to flotation, tailings transport and water recovery, their performance influences the stability of the wider operation. Yet when pumps appear similar from the outside, procurement decisions can gravitate towards the easiest comparison: purchase price. The differences that matter most are often less visible. Hydraulic suitability, material selection, manufacturing tolerances, component fitment and technical support all influence how equipment performs once installed. Their value becomes apparent through energy consumption, wear life, maintenance requirements and production continuity. For Schurco Slurry, this is the engineering behind the iron— and the basis of a more informed approach to slurry pumping. The purchase price is only the beginning Capital expenditure is an important consideration, but it represents only part of a pump’s financial impact. A total expenditure, or TOTEX, approach considers capital and operating expenditure together over a defined period. For a pumping installation, this means assessing procurement, installation and commissioning alongside energy, replacement components, maintenance labour and other operating costs.

The potential production impact of downtime should also inform the business decision. A lower purchase price may offer good value when the equipment is correctly matched to the application and properly supported. However, that initial saving can be eroded by frequent component replacement, inefficient operation or extended interruptions while parts or assistance are sourced. Meaningful comparisons therefore require a common basis: the same operating duty, expected service conditions, assessment period and clearly stated assumptions. Involving procurement, engineering, operations and maintenance teams early helps establish that basis. Each contributes information that a purchase price alone cannot capture. Every mineral presents a different pumping challenge Slurry characteristics vary between commodities, processing stages and individual plants. Particle size distribution, solids concentration, density, chemistry and temperature influence the selection of hydraulic designs and wear materials. Pipeline configuration, suction conditions and changing feed levels further affect the operating duty. A pump handling fine coal slurry may require a different approach from one moving coarse mineral particles or abrasive

8  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | November 2026

tailings. Even within the same plant, equipment that performs well in one position may be unsuitable elsewhere. Schurco’s application-led approach considers these conditions when assisting with pump selection, material recommendations and system assessment. The objective is to establish how the equipment will perform within the customer’s process, including the variations it is likely to encounter. Sound calculations need field validation Pump curves, hydraulic calculations and system modelling provide essential foundations for selection. Field assessment helps establish whether actual operating conditions match the design assumptions. Changes in slurry density, pipework, tank levels or operating practices can alter the duty after commissioning. A pump may consequently operate outside its intended range, contributing to accelerated wear, unstable performance or increased energy consumption. Understanding those changes requires engagement with the operating plant. In one application described by Schurco’s technical team, a customer sought confirmation that replacement components would integrate with an existing installation. The team rebuilt a pump on site using the proposed components and demonstrated operation in the customer’s installation. The exercise provided practical evidence of compatibility in that application, supplementing the dimensional and technical assessment. Wear patterns can reveal the underlying problem A worn component provides evidence about the conditions inside a pumping system. Uneven material loss, localised erosion and recurring damage can help guide an investigation into flow conditions, suction performance, air entrainment, material suitability and operating duty. Replacing the component may restore operation temporarily. Understanding why it wore can help identify a more lasting corrective action. A chrome plant investigation illustrates this distinction. Repeated component failures had prompted trials of different materials, without resolving the persistent wear problem. Examination of the wider system identified high velocities, friction losses, unstable feed conditions and air entrainment as contributing factors. The findings showed why material selection needed to be considered alongside system behaviour. Changing the wear material alone could not address all the conditions affecting performance. This is where wear analysis, slurry diagnostics and troubleshooting become commercially valuable: they help customers direct maintenance and improvement efforts towards the underlying causes. Support is part of the pumping solution Equipment performance also depends on the knowledge and resources available throughout its operating life. Installation guidance, alignment, maintenance practices and operator understanding all affect reliability. Access to appropriate spares, rebuild capability and technical assistance

Across mining and mineral processing, slurry pumps move material through some of the most demanding stages of production.

influences how effectively an operation can respond when intervention is required. Schurco combines application advice and field support with training, including the use of its AR pump models to help explain components and assembly. Making the internal workings of a pump easier to understand supports practical discussions with operators and maintenance teams. For customers evaluating suppliers, these capabilities deserve consideration alongside the equipment itself. The relevant questions extend to who will investigate a recurring problem, assist with changing duty conditions and support the installation over time. Confidence built on evidence With more than 50 years of manufacturing experience, Schurco Slurry’s opportunity is to make its engineering knowledge tangible through application advice, documented investigations and demonstrated performance. The strongest evidence connects a customer’s challenge with the assessment undertaken, the solution implemented and the outcome achieved. Where improvements are measured, the operating conditions and comparison period should be clear. That approach helps customers assess value beyond the appearance of a pump or the price on a quotation. Unstoppable Commitment means sustained attention to the application: selecting appropriately, investigating thoroughly and working with customers to improve performance throughout the equipment’s operating life. Because the true value of a slurry pump is demonstrated in the operation it supports. Discuss your application, wear challenges or pumping performance with a Schurco Slurry specialist. n

November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  9

ADVERTORIAL

The Mining Qualifications Authority achieves another clean audit outcome, providing skills for impact

T he Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) that facilitates skills development training in terms of the Skills Development Act 97 of 1998, under the Department of Higher Education and Training. The MQA also supports mine health and safety for the mining and minerals sector in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996, under the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. The following six strategic priorities adopted by the MQA Board continue to underpin the MQA’s role in promoting skills development in the sector: • Promote efficient and effective governance and administration • Improve skills development planning and decision-making through research • Promote work-based skills development to support transformation in the mining and minerals sector • Facilitate access to occupationally directed learning programmes for the unemployed • Support mine community training initiatives to access economic opportunities • Ensure the delivery of quality learning programmes in the mining and minerals sector With great satisfaction and sincere gratitude, we announce a significant milestone in the MQA's path toward accountability and impact: 100% overall performance for the 2025/2026 financial year, and a clean audit opinion (unqualified with no findings) from the Auditor-General of South Africa. From our Board and Executive Management to every employee, partner, and stakeholder nationwide, this remarkable milestone is a tribute to the dedication, tenacity, and teamwork of the MQA. It reminds us that excellence is a benchmark we consistently strive for, not just a concept. Reaching 100% of our performance goals signifies more than just a numerical success — it demonstrates proficient strategy implementation, attentive stakeholder involvement, and a strong

emphasis on change. By promoting workplace learning opportunities and uplifting youth in rural areas to enhancing our internal systems and promoting gender equity, we remain dedicated to an inclusive and future-oriented skills development agenda. A clean audit for the 5th consecutive year highlights our sound governance, ethical leadership, and fiscal integrity demonstrating 30 years of skills development excellence. It is a mark of assurance for all stakeholders that the MQA remains a trusted steward of public resources. • In contemplating this celebratory moment, we express gratitude and a strengthened determination to enhance our influence. We are creating a high-achieving, trustworthy, and values-oriented SETA that consistently leads with intention. To the Ministry of Higher Education and Training, our esteemed partners, and everyone who played a role in this accomplishment, we appreciate you! Your steadfast support and collaboration enable such achievements.

Dr Thabo Mashongoane Chief Executive Officer of the MQA.

Yours faithfully,

Dr Thabo Mashongoane Chief Executive Officer

For more information on our learning programmes, please contact the Mining Qualifications Authority.

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10  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | November 2026

IMPACT

PROVIDING SKILLS FOR IMPACT

For more information on our learning programmes, please contact the Mining Qualifications Authority. Tel: 011 547 2600 Website: www.mqa.org.za Enquiries: info@mqa.org.za

Promote ecient and e ective governance and administration Improve skills development planning and decision-making through research Promote work-based skills development to support transformation in the mining and minerals sector Facilitate access to occupationally directed learning programmes for the unemployed Support mine community training initiatives to access economic opportunities Ensure the delivery of quality learning programmes in the mining and minerals sector

Follow us on our social media handles: Facebook: Mining Qualifications Authority YouTube: Mining Qualifications Authority LinkedIn: Mining Qualifications Authority Twitter: MQA_SA Instagram: mqa_sa TikTok: mqa_miningseta

November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  11

LITHIUM

Cash flow from the processing of existing stockpiles from historic operations at Springbok is set to offer a non-dilutive path to funding.

Africa: A New Lithium Frontier?

As demand for lithium soars, Oceania, Asia and South America have led the charge to mine the valuable critical mineral, but might Africa soon join the party? Lithium Africa is looking to define a new African lithium frontier with two anchor projects now drilling within highly prospective licences across the continent.

Demand set to skyrocket Lithium has shot to prominence in recent years as perhaps the most strategically important mineral of the green energy transition, underpinning technologies that are central to global decarbonisation efforts. Its role in rechargeable battery technologies, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs), is well documented, but it is also key to grid-scale energy storage systems, consumer electronics and a growing range of renewable energy applications. This has led the International Energy Agency to forecast annual lithium demand to rise from around 165,000 tonnes in 2023 to more than 530,000 tonnes by 2030, before exceeding 1.3 million tonnes by 2040. Structural supply shortfalls are expected to emerge unless significant new mining capacity is developed, reversing a trend of oversupply that has suppressed prices since 2023, and representing both a commercial challenge and an opportunity. Australia leads the way Australia, Chile and China accounted for around three quarters of global lithium production between them in 2024, according to Investing News Network. Australia alone accounted for over

a third, having established itself as the world’s leading producer through large-scale hard-rock spodumene operations. Its position is supported by a mature mining sector, strong infrastructure and significant investment in downstream processing, whilst Chile’s prominence is built on the exceptional lithium-rich brines of the Salar de Atacama salt flats. Zimbabwe has rapidly emerged as Africa’s leading lithium producer, increasing its output sixfold between 2023 and 2024 whilst benefitting from significant investment from Chinese mining groups. Outside of Zimbabwe, however, Africa lags well behind Oceanian, Asian and South American big hitters. Africa: world-class geology, but minimal exploration so far Despite possessing the same LCT pegmatite geology as Western Australia, Quebec and Brazil, Africa has been explored at a fraction of the intensity. Its share of global exploration investment sat at just 10% between 2021 and 2024, following a steady decline from its latest high of 17% in 2012. That is despite greenstone belts across Africa containing some of the world’s largest, and lowest cost, spodumene resources. In fact, nine of the 10 lowest-cost spodumene assets across the globe

CEO Dr Tom Benson was one of the key figures behind the development of the vast Thacker Pass Project in Nevada.

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company’s portfolio through the operation of small-scale mining rights, offering non- dilutive paths to project financing. Springbok: District-scale potential in South Africa Anchored by the past-producing Norrabees spodumene mine, Lithium Africa’s 70%- owned Springbok Project in South Africa’s Northern Cape, held outside the Ganfeng JV, comprises a 1,675km² district-scale land package containing more than 40 known spodumene-bearing pegmatites. A 3,500-metre programme combining diamond and reverse circulation drilling got underway in July 2026, with Norrabees I and II the primary targets and defining a new mineral resource the primary goal. Historical drilling has previously returned promising results, but much of the land package remains unexplored, hinting at considerable potential upside. The company likens Springbok’s potential to that of the vast ‘Lithium Valley’ in Brazil, whose operators boast a collective market capitalisation of over US$2 billion. The aforementioned stockpile, generated by historic production at Norrabees, sits at over 30,000 tonnes at 1.61 wt% Li₂O. The company plans to process the stockpile through an on-site dense media separation plant, with the resulting cash flow offering a non-dilutive funding path to advance the project. With the presence of high-grade spodumene mineralisation already confirmed in initial market communications about the drill campaign, subsequent results expected throughout Q4 2026 and Q1 2027 will be closely watched by investors and players across Africa. An initial mineral resource estimate is targeted for the first half of 2027, with a preliminary economic assessment to follow. Adzopé: Emerging district in Côte d’Ivoire Through its JV with Ganfeng, Lithium Africa is advancing a district-scale exploration programme across a 485km² area that brings together the Adzopé and Agboville licenses in a single, integrated opportunity in Côte d’Ivoire. Exploration has already identified two significant spodumene-bearing pegmatite corridors, the Saby Trend at Adzopé and Kanien Trend at Agboville. Trenching at the former and rock sampling at the latter have demonstrated the presence of

are in Africa, demanding a much lower initial capital intensity; $6,300 per tonne of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent versus $12,100 for South American brine and $77,000 for volcano-sedimentary clay like that at Thacker Pass in Nevada. The combination of abundant resources, comparatively low exploration maturity, low-costs and rising global demand suggests Africa could become a major source of future lithium supply with the requisite level of investment. Indeed, S&P Global projects that Africa will supply 60% of the world’s lithium by 2030. Looking to define a new frontier on the continent is Canadian-listed explorer Lithium Africa. Lithium Africa: Defining the African lithium frontier Lithium Africa is active in six jurisdictions across Africa, with active drilling in South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire supported by early-stage exploration across its wider portfolio. In 2023, the company entered a 50/50 joint venture (JV) with a subsidiary of Chinese giant Ganfeng Lithium, the operator of Goulamina, one of the world’s largest hard-rock lithium deposits. Under the terms of the deal, every exploration dollar is matched by Ganfeng, which also contributes its considerable downstream and chemical processing expertise. The JV covers the company’s exploration portfolio beyond South Africa, including Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea and Mali, meaning the Springbok Project is held outside the JV. Lithium Africa brings decades of African dealmaking experience to the table, as well as a highly experienced management and exploration team with a proven track record. Chief Executive Officer Dr. Tom Benson helped define what is now recognised as the world’s largest measured lithium resource – Thacker Pass – in his previous role as VP of Global Exploration at Lithium Americas. At Lithium Argentina, he led the strategy to develop the vast lithium brine operation of Caucharí-Olaroz in another JV with Ganfeng. What is so attractive about Lithium Africa is that its projects are capital light and largely self-funding. Exploration expenditure, so often the burden of a fledgling miner, is expected to be significantly covered by cash flow from the processing of stockpiles at the Springbok Project and the monetisation of the

high-grade lithium mineralisation across multiple targets. A 2,000-metre reverse circulation drilling programme is now underway to test the continuity and scale of the mineralised system, with results targeted by year-end. The company has also applied for the adjacent Sikensi license, which, if granted, would further extend Adzopé. Crucially, like at Springbok, Lithium Africa is targeting a district-scale opportunity that would significantly contribute to Africa’s expanding lithium sector. What does the future hold for lithium in Africa? Africa’s lithium sector appears to be approaching an inflection point. With global demand expected to rise sharply over the coming decades and established producing regions facing the challenge of bringing sufficient new capacity online, attention is increasingly turning towards underexplored jurisdictions with the scale to support long-term supply growth. The continent possesses many of the ingredients required to become a major lithium producer, including world-class geology, competitive operating costs, swathes of underexplored ground and improving infrastructure in several key mining regions. The next phase of growth will depend on attracting sustained investment and converting exploration success into commercially viable operations. Companies capable of identifying district- scale opportunities, securing strategic partners and advancing projects efficiently are likely to play a defining role in shaping Africa’s lithium future. That is where Lithium Africa is seeking to establish itself. Combining its partnership with Ganfeng Lithium, experienced technical team and portfolio of projects spanning both advanced and early-stage jurisdictions, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s emerging lithium story. Whether at Springbok in South Africa or Adzopé in Côte d’Ivoire, the focus is not simply on developing one-off deposits, but large-scale districts that could go a long way to meeting the continent’s and world’s burgeoning lithium needs. If Africa is to become the next major source of global lithium supply, companies such as Lithium Africa are likely to help lead the way. n

November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za  MODERN MINING  13

CRITICAL MINERALS

Aerial view of the project.

Trinity Metals eyes major growth in tungsten and tin production By Nelendhre Moodley Rwanda-based critical metals producer Trinity Metals is gearing up for a major expansion in tungsten and tin production over the next three to five years, CEO Peter Geleta tells Modern Mining. The planned increase will be underpinned by expanded underground development, mechanisation and additional processing capacity.

CEO Peter Geleta.

“O ur medium-term ambition is to move towards a step- change in output across our core tungsten and tin operations,” Geleta says. “We have identified significant potential to increase tungsten and tin production, supported by investment in underground development, mechanisation and processing capacity.” Established in 2022, Trinity Metals hosts a combination of three historic producing assets: Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine and Rutongo Tin Mine in the Northern Province of Rwanda and Musha Tin and Tantalum Mine in the eastern province of the country. “Since the formation of Trinity Metals in 2022, we have focused on building a strong foundation for long-term growth. This has included putting in place robust and disciplined integrated business plans, establishing a strong culture of safety, copliance and accountability, and building an experienced leadership team. The next two years are about growth and optimisation. We need to capitalise on the current strong tungsten, tin and tantalum prices and execute against the plans we have put in place. We now have a four-year track record of year-on-year improvement in business performance, a compelling growth story, and

operations in a highly stable, secure and supportive jurisdiction. With four of the nine critical minerals, Trinity is well positioned to deliver significant value and represents an attractive investment opportunity. Our immediate priority is to raise the capital required to execute our business plans and unlock the next phase of growth.” The producer of tin, tungsten, and tantalum plans to invest between $150-200 million over the next three years in processing plants and tailings facilities across its mines, including Nyakabingo, where it is looking to bring a processing plant online by early 2028. “We aim to double tin production to 200 tons per month and increase tungsten production to 200 tons per month over the next three to five years – this will be achieved through greater mechanisation, larger-scale mining and modern mineral processing technologies,” explains Geleta. In so doing, the company is also helping to shape the future of Rwanda’s mining industry. Since its formation in 2022, it has taken its three historic mines and began the process of transforming them into modern, responsible and internationally relevant operations.

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Trinity Metals focus is to raise the capital required to unlock the next phase of growth.

Latest project developments According to Geleta, the focus to date has been on modernising its operations, improving safety and productivity, opening new mining areas and building the foundations for long-term growth.

The operation has historically relied on adit mining with excavations driven into the side of the mountain. These relatively small workings were not conducive to large-scale mechanisation, and, in the absence of a modern mineral processing plant, the mine adopted a narrow-vein raise-mining method focused on selectively extracting high-grade ore.

At Nyakabingo, Trinity Metals has significantly increased production, establishing itself as Africa’s largest tungsten producer, with more than 100 tonnes of high-grade tungsten concentrate produced each month. The flagship operation currently produces wolframite concentrate containing approximately 65–70% WO₃. The concession covers approximately 1 600 hectares and operates under a 25-year mining licence that commenced in 2015. Nyakabingo has a long history of production and meaningful potential to grow both at depth and through the recovery from historically stockpiled material. The life of mine extends beyond 40 years.

“However, Trinity’s future operating model is centred on developing larger declines to enable larger-scale mining, increased mechanisation and significantly higher material movement. In parallel, we are progressing studies for the design and construction of a modern, fit-for- purpose mineral processing plant capable of treating increased run-of- mine volumes, as well as the substantial legacy stockpiles accumulated on surface,” explains Geleta. The growth potential at Nyakabingo is significant. The mine currently produces

The growth potential at Nyakabingo is significant. The mine currently produces

more than 100 tonnes of wolframite concentrate per month despite not yet being fully mechanised and operating without a dedicated modern processing plant.

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CRITICAL MINERALS

we also host a significant lithium deposit at Ntunga on the Musha concession. A Phase 2 exploration drilling programme completed in 2024 has identified potential resources estimated at between 35 and 70 mt at 1.2% Li₂O. This represents an exciting discovery, and we are ring-fencing the project as we prepare to fund a larger- scale drilling programme in the upcoming business planning cycle.” Collectively Musha and Rutongo are in the top three tin producers in Africa, currently producing 70 tons of tin concentrate per month with the potential to triple this production in the next 3-5 years. “Given the significant potential across these mine concessions, a key priority in unlocking future growth will be targeted investment in exploration. To this end, we have established an experienced exploration team and are currently developing a comprehensive exploration programme, together with the associated funding requirements,” says Geleta. Outlook for critical minerals Tungsten, tin and tantalum play essential roles in technology, defence, aerospace and energy-related supply chains. As Western economies look to diversify supply chains and reduce overdependence on China and other concentrated sources of supply, responsible producers in stable jurisdictions are receiving greater attention. “Tin prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME) have strengthened recently, trading above $55 000/tonne. The softer US dollar, coupled with easing inflation expectations in anticipation of a potential deal between US and Iran have helped, together with a rosy outlook from the technology sector are expected to boost demand for tin in the medium and longer-term. Backed by these fundamentals our outlook for tin in 2026 and 2027 remains positive. We are also bullish on tungsten prices, given the current geo-economic dynamics and the various global conflicts. The high level of prices continues to incentivise increased production in Africa, Latin America and Central Asia. Output at mechanised operations in Australia, Spain and Portugal is steady, with no meaningful increases observed year-to-date. The imminent start of Sangdong Mine in South Korea has yet to happen and it is unlikely that this will influence tungsten demand.” The robust demand for its metals

Trinity Metals team onsite.

operational base from which to grow, rather than relying solely on future project development.” At the Rutongo tin operation, which has five satellite mines, the company is embarking on a similar strategy of developing declines to open new mining ground at depth aimed at facilitating mechanisation and larger scale mining. Rutongo, with its 9 600-hectare mining concession, offers significant scope for growth, with active mining currently covering only around 20% of the concession. “We are developing a comprehensive exploration programme to evaluate and advance several highly prospective targets across the broader Rutongo concession area, with the aim of defining and ultimately developing new resources. Similarly, at Musha, we are currently mining only around 20% of the 6 900-hectare concession - this offers substantial potential for further resource growth and expansion.” According to Geleta, although the Musha mine is currently producing tin, it also has a significant tantalum resource with the company seeking to capitalise on the high tantalum prices by fast tracking the conversion of its tantalum exploration into near term production. “As with our other operations, the strategy for growing tin and tantalum production at Musha is centred on opening new ground at depth through decline development, increased mechanisation, and the design and construction of modern mineral processing plants. Further to this,

In addition, an estimated 2.5–3 million tonnes of high-grade legacy stockpile material is available on surface for future processing. With these initiatives in place, the outlook for Trinity’s Nyakabingo Mine is exceptionally strong. “We are currently updating our reserve and resource confidence by undertaking a deep level drilling programme to 850 m (400 m below current production levels) to prove up the resource at depth. We are also undertaking a sonic drilling programme on the 2.5-3 million tons of accumulated stockpiled material on surface. Results from both these programmes are extremely encouraging.” The next phase of growth at Nyakabingo will focus on the development of a decline, opening up new ground at depth and enabling larger-scale mechanisation and increased mining volumes. In tandem, the company is undertaking a study into the design and construction of a dedicated mineral processing plant and tailings storage facility. Beyond doubling production over the next three to five years, these initiatives further strengthen Nyakabingo’s position as one of the world’s leading tungsten producers. “Our tin operations at Rutongo and Musha also benefit from established production, large concessions and underexplored geological potential. Many mining companies with critical minerals exposure are still at exploration or development stage; Trinity is already producing and exporting to international markets. That gives us a practical

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