PD03- INVESTMENT IN THE MINERAL INDUSTRY: POLICY ISSUES, LEGISLATION, POTENTIALS, CHALLENGES, GOVERNANCE, AND BEST PRACTICES FOR GREEN FIELDS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY IN AFRICA.

admin — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:43:02 +0000

PD03- INVESTMENT IN THE MINERAL INDUSTRY: POLICY ISSUES, LEGISLATION, POTENTIALS, CHALLENGES, GOVERNANCE, AND BEST PRACTICES FOR GREEN FIELDS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY IN AFRICA. admin Jun 22, 2023

Chairs: TBA

Panelists include:

Type

Scientific Trips

PD02-UNLEASHING AFRICA'S HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL: A SUSTAINABLE, SOCIOECONOMIC-BENEFICIAL, AND INCLUSIVE FUTURE

admin — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:41:57 +0000

PD02-UNLEASHING AFRICA'S HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL: A SUSTAINABLE, SOCIOECONOMIC-BENEFICIAL, AND INCLUSIVE FUTURE admin Jun 22, 2023

Chairs: Felix Bob Ocitti and Dung, Ibrahim Lawrence

Panelists include: TBA

Type

Scientific Trips

PD01- LIFTING THE HOOD ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ACADEMIA, INDUSTRY, AND GEOLOGICAL SURVEYS

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:27:36 +0000

PD01- LIFTING THE HOOD ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ACADEMIA, INDUSTRY, AND GEOLOGICAL SURVEYS admin Jun 21, 2023

Chairs: Halleluya Ekandjo and Giesberta Shaanika

Panelists include: Dr Glen Nalwa from Wits; Robert Kaemba former FQM Exploration manager; Dr Absai Vatuva UNAM; Ms Sheron as well VP for Rosh Pinah Mine

Lifting the hood on the relationship between academia, industry, and geological surveys in Africa reveals a dynamic and collaborative network driving advancements in geoscience and sustainable development. Academia plays a critical role in conducting research, training the next generation of geoscientists, and generating knowledge that informs industry practices and policy decisions.

Geological surveys provide valuable geoscientific data, mapping, and expertise to support both academia and industry. Meanwhile, industry brings real-world challenges and practical applications to the table, providing funding, resources, and opportunities for collaboration. Through partnerships and knowledge exchange, these stakeholders can bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable resource management.

This interconnectedness promotes a holistic approach to geological research, exploration, and responsible mining practices, contributing to Africa's socio-economic development while ensuring the preservation of its natural heritage.

To ensure a successful energy transition, the academic, industry, and government sectors of the minerals community need to work seamlessly and symbiotically. However, it is common to encounter strong opinions and misunderstandings within this relationship. Therefore, we invite you to join us for a 'group therapy' session that brings together the academic, industry, and

geological survey sectors of minerals geoscience. This panel discussion, organized by the Ore Deposits Hub and Geological Survey of Namibia, leverages their established roles as intermediaries between different sectors of the mineral resources community. During the event, representatives from each sector will have the opportunity to express what they consider important. We will then engage the audience to gather input on how we can improve collaboration and better align our goals to deliver the minerals required for a carbon-neutral future.

Type

Scientific Trips

ST14-HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL IN AFRICA

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:25:36 +0000

ST14-HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL IN AFRICA admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: TBA

Conveners: TBA

Africa is rich in resources, spanning across minerals to oil and gas. For a number of years, crude oil has been a major revenue driver for many African nations. Crude deposits are abundant, and the continent remains a hotbed for new exploration targets. The African continent is home to five of the top thirty oil producing countries in the world, and in 2019, accounted for about 7.9 million barrels per day (9.6%) of the total global output. This is slightly lower from the heights of 2005 to 2021 when African nations produced nearly 10 million barrels a day, and the production decline between 2010 to 2015 was mainly due to the drop in global crude prices.

In 2021, the continent’s proven oil reserves stood at roughly 125 billion barrels recoverable. For years, Nigeria was ranked as the highest oil producing nation in Africa, but in 2022 this was abruptly changed when Angola overtook the oil giant in first place. The latest statistics suggest that the African rankings are as follows: Angola; Nigeria; Algeria; Libya; Egypt; Republic of Congo; Gabon; Ghana; Equatorial Guinea and Chad. Oil and gas development, depending on the scale, can lead to a total transformation of a country’s economy; delivering high skilled jobs, other forms of associated employment and other benefits particularly if there is the correct focus on local content development and supply chain management, examples are Dubai, Bahrain, Norway, Chad and Canada. Existing sectors will also be enhanced to ensure continued diversity in the economy.

Despite the global slowdown in fossil fuel developments and investment, Africa has been accelerating oil and gas exploration. Sizeable oil discoveries made over the past five years have only further positioned the continent as the final frontier for hydrocarbon exploration. Some of the more notable discoveries in recent times is the Venus discovery made by Total offshore Namibia in the Orange basin, shortly thereafter, Shell’s announcement of their discovery just 50 kilometres inboard of that. Other discoveries from across the continent include Cote D’Ivoire, where Italian oil major ENI announced reserves estimated to be around 1.5 to 2 billion barrels of oil. Ghana was also present, where ENI, again announced success in the Eban exploration prospect in Block 4, offshore Ghana. In Angola, ENI also made a sizeable discovery in the deep offshore Block 15/06 which potentially be between 200 and 250 million barrels. The resource curse, or the negative impact of oil abundance on long-term economic growth for oil exporting countries is worth mentioning. Historically as seen in many African countries, there is evidence suggesting that the relationship between a country’s natural resource endowment and it’s long-term economic development is negative.

ST14_S01- Oil fields of Africa

Conveners: TBA

Africa is home to several significant oil fields that play a crucial role in the continent's oil and gas industry. One of the notable oil fields is the Niger Delta, located in Nigeria. It is one of the largest and most prolific oil-producing regions in Africa, with extensive reserves and a long history of oil production. Another prominent oil field is the Bonga Field, also in Nigeria, which is known for its deepwater production and substantial reserves. Offshore fields such as Girassol Field in Angola and Jubilee Field in Ghana have contributed to the growth of oil production in their respective countries. Additionally, other significant oil fields in Africa include the Rovuma Basin in Mozambique, the Albertine Graben in Uganda, and the Congo Basin in the Democratic Republic of Congo. These oil fields are vital for the energy sector, economic development, and foreign investment in Africa, driving revenue generation and employment opportunities in the region.

ST14_S02- New hydrocarbon discoveries in Africa

Conveners: Roger Swart

Africa continues to witness new hydrocarbon discoveries that have the potential to transform the continent's oil and gas industry. Recent years have seen significant discoveries in various regions. One notable example is the major natural gas discoveries in East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Mozambique. The Rovuma Basin in Mozambique is known for its substantial gas reserves, making it a promising area for future production and export. In West Africa, significant discoveries have been made offshore, including the Tortue Field located on the maritime border between Senegal and Mauritania. This offshore field contains vast reserves of natural gas and has the potential to become a major source of energy for both countries. Additionally, in North Africa, Egypt has made substantial offshore gas discoveries in the Mediterranean Sea, leading to increased production and becoming a key player in the region's gas market. These new hydrocarbon discoveries in Africa provide opportunities for economic growth, foreign investment, and energy development, positioning the continent as a significant player in the global energy landscape.

ST14_S03- Do oil discoveries equate to resource curse?

Conveners: TBA

The relationship between oil discoveries and the resource curse in Africa is a complex issue that varies from country to country. While oil discoveries have the potential to bring significant economic benefits and drive development, they can also lead to challenges commonly associated with the resource curse. The resource curse refers to a phenomenon where resource-rich countries experience economic and social challenges, including corruption, economic volatility, inequality, and political instability.

In some cases, oil discoveries in Africa have indeed contributed to the resource curse. Weak governance, lack of transparency, and mismanagement of revenues have resulted in the misallocation of resources, limited economic diversification, and increased dependency on oil revenues. These factors can exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities and hinder sustainable development.

However, it is important to note that the resource curse is not inevitable. Some African countries have successfully managed their oil resources, implementing policies and institutions that promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable development. These countries have focused on investing oil revenues in sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, diversifying their economies, and promoting inclusive growth.

The key to avoiding the resource curse lies in effective governance, strong institutions, and prudent management of oil revenues. By implementing sound policies, promoting transparency, and investing in human capital and diversification, African countries can harness the potential benefits of oil discoveries while mitigating the risks associated with the resource curse.

ST14_S04- Opportunities for local content, downstream, upstream and sidestream linkages in the hydrocarbon industry

Conveners: TBA

The hydrocarbon industry in Africa offers significant opportunities for the development of local content and the establishment of linkages throughout the value chain. Local content initiatives aim to maximize the involvement of local companies, suppliers, and workforce in the industry's activities, thereby fostering economic growth, job creation, and technology transfer. In the downstream sector, there are opportunities for African countries to develop refineries, storage facilities, and distribution networks, enabling them to add value to their hydrocarbon resources and meet domestic energy demands. In the upstream sector, local content policies can encourage the participation of domestic companies in exploration and production activities, enhancing their technical capabilities and driving local economic development. Additionally, sidestream linkages can be established by leveraging hydrocarbon resources to develop petrochemical industries, power generation projects, and manufacturing sectors, creating diverse opportunities for economic diversification and value creation. These opportunities for local content, downstream, upstream, and sidestream linkages in the hydrocarbon industry in Africa contribute to sustainable development, job creation, and the empowerment of local communities

Type

Scientific Trips

ST13-THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION & ITS IMPACT ON MINERAL RESOURCE IN COUNTRIES

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:24:00 +0000

ST13-THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION & ITS IMPACT ON MINERAL RESOURCE IN COUNTRIES admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: TBA

Conveners: Petronella Museta

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has a transformative impact on mineral resources in countries across Africa. With the fusion of digital, physical, and biological technologies, African countries are leveraging these advancements to drive innovation and enhance their mineral resource sector. Automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing exploration, mining operations, and mineral processing. Drones and remote sensing technologies are employed for efficient geological mapping and mineral prospecting. Data analytics and predictive modeling optimize resource extraction, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impacts. The increased demand for renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles has created opportunities for African countries rich in critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. This has the potential to stimulate economic growth, attract foreign investment, and foster job creation. However, African countries also face challenges such as the need for skilled labor and digital literacy, ensuring equitable access to technology and benefits, and addressing environmental and social concerns associated with increased mining activities. It is crucial for African governments, industry stakeholders, and educational institutions to collaborate, develop supportive policies, and invest in capacity building to harness the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in the mineral resource sector for sustainable development in the continent.

ST13_S01-The fourth Industrial revolution and its impact on mineral resource countries

Conveners: Petronella Museta

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) or Industry 4.0 represents the next phase in the digitization of the manufacturing sector, driven by disruptive technologies such as connectivity, data, computational power, analytics and intelligence, human-machine interaction, and advanced engineering. This revolution is propelled by cloud technology, Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data Analytics (BDA), complemented with blockchain technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G technology.

Africa possesses abundant resources and reserves of essential mineral commodities, making it a significant producer of metals and minerals like gold, diamond, cobalt, bauxite, iron ore, coal, and copper throughout the continent. The mineral industry plays a vital role in many African countries, contributing substantially to their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and serving as a crucial source of export earnings. Consequently, the industry holds immense importance for economic growth in Africa. The technological advancements driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution are reshaping various sectors and economies, and the mining sector, along with its underlying mineral resources in Africa, is no exception. These transformative technologies are revolutionizing the entire mining value chain, redefining processes and operations, and enhancing productivity and efficiency in the African mining industry.

ST13_S02- Geostatistics and Data Science in resource development and quantification

Conveners: TBA

Geostatistics and Data Science play a critical role in resource development and quantification by providing valuable tools and techniques for analyzing and interpreting spatial data in the field of Earth sciences. Geostatistics and Data Science play a crucial role in resource development and quantification in Africa, where the continent is rich in diverse mineral resources. Geostatistical techniques provide a systematic approach for analyzing and interpreting spatial data, allowing for accurate estimation and modeling of mineral deposits in unmeasured areas. This is particularly important in Africa, where resource exploration often takes place in remote and underexplored regions. By integrating geostatistics with Data Science, African countries can leverage advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms to extract meaningful insights from large and complex datasets. These insights can inform decision-making processes, optimize sampling strategies, and assess the potential of mineral resources more effectively. Geostatistics and Data Science enable African nations to make informed decisions, attract investment in resource development, and promote sustainable management of their mineral wealth, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and overall development in the region.

ST13_S03- Artificial intelligence, big data, and mineral system approach in mineral predictive mapping: Background and applications

Conveners: TBA

Artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and the mineral system approach have emerged as powerful tools in mineral predictive mapping, offering new opportunities for mineral exploration and resource assessment in Africa. The combination of AI and big data analytics enables the processing and analysis of vast amounts of geological, geochemical, and geophysical data, enhancing the understanding of mineralization processes and identifying potential mineral deposits. The mineral system approach provides a conceptual framework that integrates geological, geochemical, and geophysical information to model the formation and distribution of mineral resources. In Africa, where there is still significant untapped mineral potential, the application of AI, big data, and the mineral system approach can help prioritize exploration targets, guide efficient resource allocation, and reduce exploration risks. By leveraging these advanced technologies and methodologies, African countries can enhance their mineral resource assessment capabilities, attract investment in the mining sector, and foster sustainable development in the region.

Type

Scientific Trips

ST12 - GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:22:44 +0000

ST12 - GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: TBA

Convener: Halleluya Ekandjo and Maideyi Lydia Meck

Geoscience education for sustainable development in Africa plays a vital role in equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills necessary to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.

By integrating geoscience into education curricula, Africa can raise awareness about the continent's unique geological heritage, natural resources, and the impacts of human activities on the environment. Geoscience education fosters an understanding of earth processes, climate change, land degradation, and the importance of responsible resource management. It also promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative approaches to sustainability.

Moreover, geoscience education in Africa can enhance local capacity by training a skilled workforce to tackle geohazards, water scarcity, and other environmental issues. By emphasizing the importance of sustainable development, geoscience education empowers individuals to make informed decisions, engage in sustainable practices, and contribute to the long-term well-being of Africa's people and ecosystems.

ST12_S01 - Geoscience communication

Convener: Josephine Uushona

Geoscience communication in Africa plays a crucial role in promoting awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the Earth's processes and resources among diverse audiences. Effective geoscience communication involves translating complex scientific concepts into accessible language, engaging storytelling, and utilizing various communication channels. It aims to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, communities, and the general public, fostering dialogue and informed decision-making. Geoscience communication initiatives in Africa involve educational outreach programs, public lectures, science festivals, and the use of digital platforms and social media to reach wider audiences. By enhancing geoscience literacy and promoting the relevance of geoscience to everyday life, communication efforts in Africa contribute to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of geological heritage. Moreover, geoscience communication can inspire young Africans to pursue careers in geoscience, fostering a new generation of scientists and professionals who can contribute to addressing the continent's unique geological challenges and opportunities.

ST12_S02- Geoscience curriculums that meet industry needs

Conveners: Maideyi Lydia Meck

Geoscience curricula that meet industry needs are designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and practical experiences to succeed in the professional geoscience sector. These curricula are often developed in collaboration with industry experts and stakeholders to ensure alignment with current industry practices and emerging trends. They incorporate a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on fieldwork, laboratory exercises, and industry-relevant projects. Geoscience curricula focus on core disciplines such as geology, geophysics, geochemistry, andhydrogeology, while also integrating interdisciplinary subjects like environmental science, remote sensing, and geospatial analysis. They emphasize the application of geoscience principles to real-world problems and encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills development. Moreover, industry-focused curricula often include internships, industry placements, or cooperative education programs that provide students with practical experience and exposure to professional work environments. By tailoring geoscience curricula to meet industry needs, educational institutions can produce graduates who are well-prepared and highly sought-after by the geoscience industry, contributing to the advancement of the sector and fostering a skilled workforce that can address the challenges and opportunities of the Earth sciences.

Type

Scientific Trips

ST11- INVESTMENT IN THE MINERAL INDUSTRY: GREEN FIELDS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY- POLICY ISSUES, LEGISLATIONS, POTENTIALS, CHALLENGES, GOVERNANCE AND BEST PRACTICES

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:20:58 +0000

ST11- INVESTMENT IN THE MINERAL INDUSTRY: GREEN FIELDS EXPLORATION AND EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY- POLICY ISSUES, LEGISLATIONS, POTENTIALS, CHALLENGES, GOVERNANCE AND BEST PRACTICES admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: Fabian Shaanika

Investment in the mineral industry, encompassing green fields exploration and the extractive industry, is crucial for Africa's economic development. The continent boasts vast mineral resources that hold great potential for generating revenue, creating jobs, and driving technological advancements. However, there are various policy issues, legislations, potentials, challenges, governance concerns, and best practices that need to be considered in order to maximize the benefits of mineral investment in Africa.

Policy issues and legislations play a key role in creating a conducive environment for mineral investment. Governments need to establish clear and transparent regulatory frameworks that attract investors while safeguarding national interests, environmental sustainability, and social welfare. This involves defining exploration and mining rights, enforcing environmental and social responsibility, and promoting local content development.

Africa's mineral industry holds immense potentials, but there are challenges that need to be addressed. These include infrastructural deficiencies, inadequate access to financing, insufficient geological data, and technological limitations. Additionally, the sector often faces issues related to corruption, illegal mining, and lack of transparency. Overcoming these challenges requires robust governance mechanisms, capacity building, and collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and communities.

Best practices in the mineral industry involve adopting responsible and sustainable mining practices. This includes mitigating environmental impacts, respecting the rights and welfare of local communities, promoting fair and equitable benefit-sharing, and ensuring health and safety standards. Embracing technological advancements, such as digitalization and automation, can enhance efficiency and minimize environmental footprints.

To attract investment and maximize the benefits, Africa needs to improve its investment climate through stable regulatory frameworks, efficient administrative procedures, and fiscal stability. It is essential to foster partnerships between governments, industry, and communities to create a shared vision for sustainable mineral development.

In conclusion, investment in the mineral industry in Africa has immense potential to drive economic growth and development. Addressing policy issues, implementing effective legislations, harnessing potentials, overcoming challenges, ensuring good governance, and adopting best practices are crucial steps toward maximizing the benefits of mineral investment while minimizing social and environmental impacts. Collaborative efforts and long-term planning will pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous mineral industry in Africa.

ST11_S01- Geological characteristics of the critical metals and minerals

Conveners: Mary Barton

Africa possesses a diverse range of geological characteristics that host critical metals and minerals, playing a significant role in the continent's mineral wealth. These geological characteristics are often associated with various tectonic settings, such as ancient cratons, volcanic arcs, and sedimentary basins. For instance, the Archean cratons of Southern Africa are known for their rich deposits of platinum group metals (PGMs), including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The Central African Copperbelt, located in the southern part of the continent, hosts substantial reserves of copper and cobalt. The Pan-African orogenic belts, stretching across North and West Africa, contain significant gold, tin, and tungsten deposits. Moreover, the Great Rift Valley, extending from East Africa to Southern Africa, exhibits potential for geothermal energy resources. The geological characteristics of Africa are diverse and complex, contributing to the continent's abundance of critical metals and minerals, which have economic, technological, and strategic importance globally.

ST11_S02- Mining taxation, fiscal policies and fiscal instruments

Conveners: TBA

Mining taxation, fiscal policies, and fiscal instruments in Africa are crucial tools for governments to manage their mineral resources effectively, promote sustainable development, and maximize revenue generation. African countries employ a range of fiscal policies and instruments tailored to their specific contexts and mineral sectors. These include taxes, royalties, and production-sharing agreements that aim to capture a fair share of mining profits. Additionally, governments may implement fiscal incentives to attract investment, such as tax holidays or reduced tax rates for exploration and development activities. The establishment of transparent and accountable fiscal regimes is a priority, ensuring that tax laws and regulations are clear, consistent, and effectively enforced. African countries also increasingly recognize the importance of leveraging mining revenues to diversify their economies, invest in social infrastructure, and promote local content development. By employing sound fiscal policies and fiscal instruments, African nations strive to strike a balance between attracting investment, maximizing revenue, and promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices for the benefit of their economies and communities.

ST11_S03- Mining and exploration financing and investment modalities

Conveners: TBA

Mining and exploration financing and investment modalities in Africa encompass a diverse range of strategies and mechanisms aimed at attracting capital and promoting sustainable mining activities. African countries, rich in mineral resources, employ various approaches to finance mining projects and support exploration efforts. Traditional methods include equity financing, where companies seek investment from shareholders or venture capitalists, and debt financing, involving loans or credit facilities from banks or financial institutions. Additionally, project financing, where lenders provide funding based on the project's revenue potential, is commonly used. Joint ventures and strategic partnerships are also prevalent, enabling collaboration between local and international companies to share risks and resources. African governments often provide fiscal incentives, such as tax breaks or exemptions, to attract mining investment. Public-private partnerships and development funds may be established to support infrastructure development and encourage responsible mining practices. Increasingly, the region has seen the emergence of impact and socially responsible investors who consider environmental and social factors in their funding decisions. These diverse financing and investment modalities contribute to the development of the mining sector in Africa, fostering economic growth, job creation, and responsible resource extraction.

ST11_S04- Opportunities for local content, downstream, upstream and sidestream linkages in the hydrocarbon industry

Conveners: TBA

The hydrocarbon industry in Africa presents significant opportunities for local content, downstream, upstream, and sidestream linkages. Local content refers to the participation and development of local businesses, workforce, and industries in the hydrocarbon value chain. African countries have recognized the importance of maximizing local participation and leveraging the industry's potential to create jobs, promote skills development, and boost economic growth. Downstream linkages involve the establishment of refineries, petrochemical plants, and distribution networks, enabling the processing and value addition of hydrocarbon resources within the region. This helps to diversify the economy, create additional employment opportunities, and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products. Upstream linkages focus on developing local capacity in exploration, production, and service provision, allowing African companies to participate in upstream activities and build technical expertise. Sidestream linkages involve the development of auxiliary industries, such as manufacturing equipment, supply chain management, and research and development, to support the hydrocarbon sector. This enables technology transfer, innovation, and the growth of ancillary industries that benefit from the hydrocarbon industry's presence. By fostering local content, downstream, upstream, and sidestream linkages, African countries can unlock the full potential of their hydrocarbon resources, promote economic diversification, and create a sustainable and inclusive hydrocarbon industry.

ST11_S05- Characteristics of the mining industry that drive investment decisions.

Conveners: TBA

Several characteristics of the mining industry in Africa drive investment decisions. Firstly, the continent is rich in mineral resources, including gold, diamonds, copper, cobalt, and various other metals and minerals. The abundance and diversity of these resources present attractive opportunities for investors seeking to capitalize on their value. Additionally, Africa's geological potential is still relatively untapped, with significant unexplored areas offering the possibility of new discoveries and untapped mineral deposits. Political stability and a favorable regulatory framework are also crucial factors. Stable governance, transparent policies, and clear mining regulations instil confidence in investors and provide a predictable operating environment. Infrastructure is another significant consideration, as efficient transportation networks, reliable energy supply, and access to water are essential for successful mining operations. Moreover, the local workforce and skills development are important factors. Investors look for regions with a skilled labor force or the potential to develop local talent through training and education programs. Environmental and social factors also play a significant role, as responsible mining practices and community engagement are increasingly expected by investors and stakeholders. Finally, market dynamics, such as commodity prices and demand, are considered when making investment decisions. Investors assess the potential for profitability and market growth, ensuring a favorable economic environment for their mining projects. By taking these characteristics into account, investors can evaluate the opportunities and risks associated with the African mining industry and make informed investment decisions.

Type

Scientific Trips

ST10-AFRICA’S NUCLEAR FUEL RESOURCES: POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:18:52 +0000

ST10-AFRICA’S NUCLEAR FUEL RESOURCES: POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: Judith Kinnaird

Africa possesses significant nuclear fuel resources, including uranium and thorium, which have the potential to provide substantial benefits to the continent. These resources can be utilized for both energy generation and medical applications.

Africa has two prominent uranium-producing countries which currently rank second and fifth in World production, namely Namibia and Niger. Historic and current exploration activities have shown that other uranium deposits and the potential for new finds exist in a number of countries other than the two named above. It can therefore be stated that Africa already plays a vital role in the provision of fuel for the World’s nuclear reactors, and can even play a bigger role, as many African countries aspire to become a uranium producer too.

The session will look at the two current producers, and the uranium potential of other African countries, and unpacks the benefits that uranium exploration and mining can bring, including possible value addition and utilization at home. It will also address local and international licensing and safety requirements which might pose challenges, especially for newcomers. With proper governance and strategic utilization, Africa's nuclear fuel resources have the potential to contribute to sustainable development, energy security, and advancements in various sectors, while ensuring the highest standards of safety and security.

ST10_S01- Africa's Nuclear Fuel Resources: Potential Benefits and Challenges

Conveners: Gabi Schneider and Paul Nex.

Type

Scientific Trips

ST09 - ROLE OF THE MINERAL INDUSTRY IN THE GREEN HYDROGEN ENERGY ECONOMY

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:18:07 +0000

ST09 - ROLE OF THE MINERAL INDUSTRY IN THE GREEN HYDROGEN ENERGY ECONOMY admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: TBA

Conveners: Frans Kalenga

The mineral industry plays a crucial role in the development and implementation of the green hydrogen energy economy. Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources, has emerged as a promising solution for decarbonizing various sectors, including transportation, industry, and energy storage.

The green hydrogen energy economy requires a significant input of raw materials from the mineral industry. Green hydrogen fuel cells that produce energy require platinum (Pt) and iridium (Ir) membranes. Geoscientists will have to increase the world's supply of these two metals unless alternatives are found. The green hydrogen infrastructure also requires substantial amounts of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), lithium (Li), and sodium (Na). The supply of these resources must occur simultaneously with the development of the green hydrogen economy.

I když Cialis může být pro mnoho mužů účinnou léčbou erektilní dysfunkce koupit Cialis v lékárně není vhodný pro každého a je důležité vyhledat lékařskou pomoc.

Africa is rich in mineral resources essential for the production of green hydrogen, including platinum group metals (PGMs), rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and nickel. The mineral industry in Africa not only provides the raw materials but also contributes to the establishment of renewable energy infrastructure, such as wind and solar farms, which power the electrolysis process.

As Africa aims to transition to a greener and more sustainable energy future, responsible and sustainable extraction, processing, and supply chain management by the mineral industry become essential in supporting the growth of the green hydrogen sector and driving economic development on the continent.

Attraverso le strade strette e tortuose di Napoli acquistare Viagra, si raccontavano storie di uomini che cercavano l'amore con l'aiuto del Viagra.

Collaboration between the mineral industry, renewable energy sector, and policymakers is crucial to optimize the supply chain, develop environmentally friendly mining practices, and foster innovation in the production and utilization of green hydrogen.

Bottom of Form

ST09_S01- Role of the Mineral Industry In the Green Hydrogen Energy Economy

Conveners: TBA

Type

Scientific Trips

ST08- ROLE OF FOSSIL FUELS IN AFRICA’S ENERGY TRANSITION TO CARBON NEUTRAL ECONOMIES

admin — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 13:17:11 +0000

ST08- ROLE OF FOSSIL FUELS IN AFRICA’S ENERGY TRANSITION TO CARBON NEUTRAL ECONOMIES admin Jun 21, 2023

Keynote speaker: TBA

Conveners: TBA

Fossil fuels have been the primary driver of industrialization in the developed world, and they continue to play a significant role in the energy sector. As world economies transition to a mix of green energy solutions, fossil fuels will still maintain a dominant position in critical industries such as petrochemicals, which serve the agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors. The role of crude oil products in the textile industry will also remain important. Capturing the carbon emissions from hydrocarbons and utilizing them in the hydrogen economy for the production of blue and grey hydrogen will be crucial. Africa's shift from a more affordable hydrocarbon-based energy source to a more expensive hydrogen economy will necessitate an increased reliance on blue hydrogen before making a full transition to the green hydrogen economy.

ST08_S01- Role of Fossil Fuels in Africa’s Energy Transition to carbon neutral economies

Conveners: TBA

Type

Scientific Trips