Africa’s mining future will not be driven solely by major mining companies. While large mining houses remain vital to the sector, history has consistently shown that new discoveries are often made by explorers, entrepreneurs and junior mining companies willing to take risks in pursuit of opportunity.

This was the message delivered by Junior Indaba Chairperson Bernard Swanepoel during the opening of the 2026 Junior Indaba in Johannesburg, where industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of junior mining across the continent.

Swanepoel noted that Africa’s vast mineral wealth has never been more strategically important as global supply chains are reshaped, nations compete for access to critical minerals and investment capital becomes increasingly selective.

“We meet at a fascinating moment. The world is becoming more fragmented, supply chains are being redrawn, nations are competing for access to minerals, and capital is becoming more selective. Yet Africa’s mineral endowment has never been more strategically important,” he said.

According to Swanepoel, the debate is no longer about whether Africa possesses the necessary mineral resources, but whether governments and industry can create an environment that encourages investment, exploration and project development.

“The question is whether we can create the conditions that allow investment, discovery and development to flourish,” he said.

The conference highlighted the growing role that junior mining companies can play in meeting increasing global demand for minerals. Participants were encouraged to continue pursuing exploration opportunities despite ongoing industry challenges.

Swanepoel emphasised that South Africa, in particular, faces a critical decision.

“We can continue debating our challenges, or we can become globally competitive again,” he said.

He warned that exploration capital is highly mobile and that investors have numerous options when deciding where to allocate funds.

“Good intentions are not enough. Competitiveness matters,” he added.

A key theme emerging from discussions was the need for stronger collaboration between governments, regulators and industry to unlock investment and support the development of new mining projects.

Delegates were asked to vote on what Africa lacks most in stimulating junior mining growth. The options included policy certainty, investment, greater collaboration and more projects.

The overwhelming majority selected policy certainty, highlighting the crucial role governments play in creating an attractive investment environment.

Industry stakeholders also stressed the importance of regulatory efficiency and transparent, predictable licensing processes.

Furthermore, delegates agreed that modern mining cadastre systems are essential for supporting exploration and investment, noting that a globally competitive exploration industry cannot be built without an effective and reliable mineral rights administration system.

Swanepoel expressed optimism that the discussions would lead to stronger partnerships, increased project funding and the development of new mines across the continent.

He concluded by reminding delegates that mining remains a business built on faith, patience and perseverance, often requiring participants to step beyond their comfort zones in pursuit of success.