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Message: [QUOTE="Queen, post: 86477, member: 27"] A major speech drops on Wednesday targeting how South Africa can cash in on the stuff the world desperately needs for batteries and green tech. Deputy President's big Mining Indaba talk [LIST] [*]Paul Mashatile steps up on 11 February 2026 for the keynote. [*]His address targets smarter investments in critical minerals and local processing. [*]The South African Youth Economic Council hosts its 4th Annual event. [/LIST] What the SAYEC gathering actually does [LIST] [*]This forum puts young people at the centre of mining ownership conversations. [*]It runs alongside the larger African Mining Indaba at Cape Town's convention centre. [*]Government officials, investors, and youth voices discuss mineral-driven economic growth. [/LIST] Why critical minerals matter right now [LIST] [*]Platinum, manganese, lithium, and copper power clean energy tech and electric vehicles. [*]Mashatile zeroes in on energy security and turning raw materials into finished products. [*]His remarks could shape how the country grabs opportunities in global green power. [/LIST] Fresh strategy rolled out in 2025 [LIST] [*]South Africa's Critical Minerals and Metals Strategy identifies high-priority resources. [*]The plan targets platinum group metals, manganese, iron ore, coal, and chrome. [*]Lithium, vanadium, and rare earths get flagged as strong potential additions. [/LIST] Moving beyond just digging and shipping [LIST] [*]Local processing creates more value, jobs, and economic returns at home. [*]Estimates suggest 2.3 million African jobs and 12% GDP lift if executed properly. [*]The country aims for electric vehicle and renewable energy supply chain positions. [/LIST] Five core areas driving the strategy [LIST] [*]Exploration ramps up to discover new deposits across the region. [*]Research funding targets better processing methods and manufacturing techniques. [*]Local factories will transform minerals into batteries, steel, and other products. [*]Infrastructure upgrades cover roads, ports, and power grids supporting sector growth. [/LIST] Funding challenges and solutions proposed [LIST] [*]Blended financing mixes government cash with private loans and community bonds. [*]Old regulations sometimes discourage investors from committing resources. [*]Global green mining standards ensure clean, fair practices meet world demands. [/LIST] Mashatile's energy security angle [LIST] [*]Steady power supply needs balancing while shifting to solar and wind sources. [*]Batteries storing green energy require the critical minerals South Africa possesses. [*]Beneficiation keeps money and manufacturing jobs local instead of exporting everything raw. [/LIST] Inclusive ownership push gains momentum [LIST] [*]Spreading mine shares to youth, women, and black South Africans corrects past imbalances. [*]Training programs and startup funds help young entrepreneurs enter the sector. [*]This approach aims to build an industry lifting everyone, not just elites. [/LIST] Mining Indaba 2026 context matters [LIST] [*]The wider event runs from 9 to 12 February with a record 10,500 attendees. [*]Partnerships can fix infrastructure gaps and attract investment for green growth. [*]Africa's cobalt, manganese, and graphite stores prove critical for global energy transitions. [/LIST] G20 presidency framework established [LIST] [*]South Africa's 2025 leadership created new critical minerals processing guidelines. [*]Continental Free Trade Area goals align with local value-addition priorities. [*]Price swings and geopolitics pose challenges, but cooperation promises massive wins. [/LIST] Youth employment opportunities expanding [LIST] [*]The sector currently employs over 500,000 people and contributes billions annually. [*]Fresh skills for AI exploration and environmentally friendly mining attract young workers. [*]New ties between government, major mines, and startups focus on factory construction. [/LIST] Building batteries and solar components locally [LIST] [*]Beneficiation creates manufacturing jobs while fighting climate change. [*]South Africa positions itself as a clean tech leader through strategic processing. [*]Wednesday's address could unlock competitive advantages benefiting all citizens. [/LIST] [/QUOTE]

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