Topics In Demand
Notification
New

No notification found.

Revolutionizing Mineral Resources with Digital Technology
Revolutionizing Mineral Resources with Digital Technology

October 9, 2023

26

0

Mineral resources constitute a crucial revenue stream for the African continent. In the year 2019, minerals and fossil fuels contributed to over one-third of exports from at least 60 percent of African nations. The continent's production of approximately 80 percent of the world's platinum, two-thirds of its cobalt, half of its manganese, and a significant quantity of chromium places it in a favorable position to capitalize on the escalating demand for these minerals. Additionally, Africa is reputed to possess some of the world's most extensive unexplored mineral reserves.
 
Regrettably, the absence of comprehensive geological mapping and exploration has resulted in an incomplete understanding of the entirety of the continent's resources. In order to fully harness the potential of mineral-rich African nations, it is imperative for mining companies and African governments to adopt emerging technologies. The integration of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, GIS, robotic process automation and big data analytics can assist mining enterprises in mitigating environmental risks, improving labor conditions, reducing operational expenses, and augmenting productivity.

For example, despite generating vast amounts of data throughout their operations, only a few mining companies utilize it in a manner that provides tangible value. This represents a significant missed opportunity, as advanced analytics can optimize mine planning, increase yields, and reduce equipment downtime. In South Africa, a 30-year-old mine was able to increase its mineral recovery by 2 percent by applying advanced analytics to its primary processing steps.

The Syama mine in Mali serves as a prime example of a site that has reaped the benefits of digitalization. In 2015, Resolute Mining assumed control of operations at Syama and successfully transformed it into the world's inaugural purpose-built automated mine. Through the utilization of a fiber-optic network linked to control centers situated above ground, employees are able to effectively manage and monitor all activities, ranging from the initial clearing of the drill point to the subsequent extraction, loading, and hauling processes. Despite the substantial initial investment required, these changes are projected to reduce mining costs by 30 percent and enhance overall efficiency. Notably, the machines are capable of operating for 22 hours per day, eliminating any time lost due to shift changes.

It is also crucial to recognize that the economic advantages of digitalization extend to both governments and local communities. As mines become more productive and profitable, national governments will realize increased revenue to allocate towards infrastructure investments such as roads, schools, and health clinics.

Mining operations that embrace the digital transformation will witness heightened production levels, enhanced efficiency and effectiveness, and a greater commitment to environmental sustainability. In essence, they will disrupt Africa's mining sector; however, if harnessed correctly, the benefits of digitalization will far outweigh the associated risks.

The article was first published on CSM Blog Named: The Pending Mining Revolution of Africa


That the contents of third-party articles/blogs published here on the website, and the interpretation of all information in the article/blogs such as data, maps, numbers, opinions etc. displayed in the article/blogs and views or the opinions expressed within the content are solely of the author's; and do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of NASSCOM or its affiliates in any manner. NASSCOM does not take any liability w.r.t. content in any manner and will not be liable in any manner whatsoever for any kind of liability arising out of any act, error or omission. The contents of third-party article/blogs published, are provided solely as convenience; and the presence of these articles/blogs should not, under any circumstances, be considered as an endorsement of the contents by NASSCOM in any manner; and if you chose to access these articles/blogs , you do so at your own risk.


CSM Tech provides transforming solutions and services in IT for Governments and large or small Industries. As a CMMI Level 5 company, CSM emphasizes more on Quality of delivery and Customer Satisfaction. With about 2 decades of delivering solutions and more than 500 employees, CSM has developed a comprehensive portfolio of products, solutions and smart consulting services. CSM has achieved quite a few unique distinctions of being first to many unexplored business opportunities.

© Copyright nasscom. All Rights Reserved.