South Africa's TIA Emphasizes Innovation in Critical Minerals Strategy at Mining Indaba 2026

At the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, TIA's Loyiso Tyira highlighted innovation's role in enhancing South Africa's critical minerals sector. The government aims to shift from raw material export to technology-driven value addition. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are essential for modernizing the sector and addressing challenges like rising costs and environmental compliance.

Published Mar 28, 2026

During the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, Loyiso Tyira, chairperson of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), emphasized the need for innovation in South Africa's critical minerals strategy. The government aims to enhance competitiveness and sustainability in the mining sector through advanced processing and technology development.

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The dialogue included various ministers discussing the importance of innovation in establishing South Africa as a reliable supplier in global value chains. Tyira noted operational pressures on mining companies and highlighted TIA's role in supporting local technology deployment to address challenges and unlock economic opportunities. He called for collaboration among government, mining firms, and research institutions to modernize the sector.