The narrative of the African continent is shifting from one of historical struggle to a “quiet rebellion” of promise and innovation. In his opening comments at the Young Professionals Programme on 12 February 2026, Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council South Africa, delivered a powerful message of hope: Africa has no reason to weep because its future—embodied by its young professionals—has officially arrived.
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While the global economy faces instability, Mthenjane argues that the African mining industry is not a “sunset story” but rather the “sunrise of the global energy future”. To realize this potential, he addressed five pervasive myths that often cloud the perception of the industry.
Debunking the Myths of Mining
Mthenjane countered common misconceptions with data-driven facts and a vision of a modernized, inclusive sector:
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Myth 1: Youth lack interest in mining. While global polls from 2021–2023 in countries such as Canada and the UK show low interest, African data suggest the opposite. The real barrier is access, not interest; there is a high demand for clearer pathways to bursaries, internships, and graduate placements.
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Myth 2: Leadership does not trust young professionals. Industry leaders recognize that the future of mining—which is digital, automated, and decarbonized—is part of the “DNA” of young Africans who are fluent in data analytics and renewable power systems.
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Myth 3: Mining is inherently unsafe. Through “zero-harm” campaigns and the adoption of remote operations and mechanization, the industry is transforming into a safe, humane, and inclusive environment. This is particularly vital for ensuring that women in the industry “inherit possibility” rather than danger.
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Myth 4: There is no future role for youth. Africa holds over 30% of the world’s critical mineral resources. The global energy transition cannot happen without Africa, positioning young people as the “authors” of the critical mineral revolution through AI innovation and the design of modern mines.
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Myth 5: Investment appetite is dying. Investment follows conviction. Where geological richness meets youthful talent and technological renewal, investment continues to evolve and grow.
Authors of a New Frontier
The message to young professionals is clear: they are not bystanders but the essential architects of Africa’s economic development and social prosperity. By leveraging AI to explore new commodities and building renewable systems to power the economy, this generation is reshaping the industry’s policies and post-mine successor economies.
“Cry NOT, my beloved Africa, for her youth are not waiting for hope. They are creating it.”
The Minerals Council South Africa reaffirms that young talent is valued and needed now, not just in the distant future, to lead the continent toward its inevitable rise as a global energy leader.