Geoscience Ireland (GI) and six of its Member Companies participated at Mining INDABA this February 4th to 7th. South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, delivered the keynote address at INDABA and noted the mining industry as a key player in South Africa’s economic development. President Ramaphosa stated his government is to prioritise the restoration of a stable and predictable policy and regulatory environment to optimise exploration, production and beneficiation potential in the country.

GI facilitated a round-table discussion with the African Development Bank, which Ireland is due to join in 2019, and was joined by GI Members PW Mining International, PW Group, SLR Environmental and ERM; Enterprise Ireland outlined Ireland’s capacity in winning business overseas while GI and its Members provided an overview of its proficiency and experience in African markets. The Irish delegation was joined by the European Geological Survey, it provided an overview of its PanAfGeo program which is delivering capacity building and geological skills training to Geological Surveys and professionals across Africa.

GI Members Mincon and Golder participated at the Irish networking lunch which was hosted by HE Liam MacGabhann, Ireland’s Ambassador to South Africa; Ambassador MacGabhann noted economic buoyancy in South Africa and its neighbouring countries and supports the growing Irish presence in the region.