International mining companies under-taking African mining projects can benefit from working in cooperation with consultants, contractors and subcontractors, besides others, that have an extensive knowledge of Africa and a presence on the continent and understand African conditions, culture and people, says engineering, management and specialist technical services provider Aurecon sector leader for mining Dr Pieter Viljoen.
Africa can be a difficult continent to operate sustainable mines, and mining companies must use any advantage to succeed.
African governments, in turn, should encourage more investments by making their countries more investment friendly. Difficult legislation and administrative procedures as well as a country’s tax regime could affect investments by mining companies, he adds.
“Another deterrent could be the long duration of environmental approvals, which can delay mine development, affect a mine’s feasibility and delay job creation in the specific country. This will, in turn, delay any economic benefit to be derived from the mine,” he says.
Further, mining developments in Africa are mostly dependent on efficient transportation logistics, and Viljoen believes that there is benefit in opening transportation routes in developing countries.
The transportation and handling of commodities from pit to port in an economical manner that optimises infrastructure, operation and maintenance costs are significant factors in the development of any mine, says Viljoen. Water management and community development are also important aspects, and aspects such as health and safety can be improved.
Viljoen believes that these challenges can also be overcome by a partnership between mining companies and government, particularly as mines are sensitive to local country requirements and are willing to accommodate government requirements.
Aurecon will be exhibiting its mining competences, with special emphasis on experience related to the development of bulk material storage, handling and loading facilities at mines and ports, as well as road and rail transportation between these locations, at the Mining Indaba 2011, in February.