‘The future of the mining sector is likely to be shaped by advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, big data and automation, which will continue to revolutionise the way African businesses operate,’ according to Gert Roselt, the CEO of Probe IMT Group, which provides integrated productivity and safety solutions to mining, construction, agriculture, marine and industrial businesses across Africa.

So powerful is this belief within the group that it has built its reputation on the back of its investments in cutting-edge technologies and the development of new products and services. One recent example is the partnership Probe IMT and its OEM partner M3SH have with the University of Stellenbosch.

Together they are developing a connected mine solution with the Mandela Mining Precinct, which is mandated to facilitate the development of skills, capacity and capability in mining research, development and innovation. Here they will all be working in collaboration with the South African Mining Extraction, Research, Development and Innovation’s Real-time Information Management Systems research and solutioning programme, which is aimed at creating new knowledge about mining technology, data systems and mining processes. This aims to ensure the longevity of current mines, mechanised mining systems and advanced orebody knowledge.

Probe IMT is perfectly positioned to be aligned to this programme as it has been at the forefront of innovation in the mining sector by pioneering advancements. One of these is the provision of cutting-edge industrial internet of things (IIoT) sensors for underground mines. Incidentally it is this same IIoT tech that will be used to develop the connected mine solution, which is interoperable and built on open-standard protocols for predictability modelling and new business insights, explains Roselt.

‘The sensors mark a significant advancement in environmental monitoring technology with data-driven insights, seamlessly integrating with existing safety systems to deliver enhanced real-time data on various environmental factors,’ he says.

‘Their effortless integration capability empowers companies to strengthen their safety protocols without the need for extensive infrastructure overhauls.’

The environmental aspect is a massive driver for change, claims Probe IMT, as are practices that incorporate economic and social factors into decision-making processes. ‘This is necessary if we are to ensure the sustainability of the mining sector, while enhancing its long-term viability and resilience,’ says Roselt.

‘Over time, these measures advance growth by developing robust organisations that are simultaneously flexible in an evolving market dynamic.’

The company leads by example. It has cemented its focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility as a priority, which it believes all businesses should be applying in Africa. ‘While the push for ESG targets is strong, the burning question is how realistic is it for local businesses to achieve such targets without compromising their growth agendas?

‘This is particularly challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises that struggle to achieve their targets given their probable lack of necessary resources and expertise,’ he says. ‘One approach is to integrate ESG considerations into the overall business strategy to reveal synergies that can create value in the long term, for example, by investing in environmentally friendly technologies. This has proven to lead to cost-savings and operational efficiencies while simultaneously demonstrating a commitment to sustainability for improved brand value and reputation.’

Probe IMT has done this by leveraging advanced data analytics and AI. ‘By harnessing the power of big data and machine learning, we are able to analyse and interpret massive amounts of data to identify patterns and trends, especially in collision-awareness systems [CAS],’ says Roselt.

CAS solutions are directed at enhanced safety protocols and risk management without compromising mining or earth-moving production.

‘This approach streamlines operations, improves productivity and addresses health and safety concerns,’ he says.

Alongside, Probe IMT has adopted and encourages its clients to use smart tech and automation devices that help monitor and control various processes in real-time, leading to reductions in energy consumption, waste generation and overall carbon footprint.

Staying ahead of the curve requires solutions providers to understand the unique needs and challenges of clients, which Probe IMT does by its ongoing investment in research and the identification of emerging technologies that can address specific industry demands.

‘We collaborate with a number of technology partners so that we stay – if not ahead, then at least – abreast of the latest advances. Effectively we can then tailor solutions to meet the specialised needs of our clients, to ensure maximum effectiveness and value,’ says Roselt.

Value is also derived from the mining sector’s potential to create significant employment opportunities, and this is irrespective of the introduction of tech. The opportunities are both direct and indirect and across allied sectors such as transportation, construction and other services. However, as Roselt points out, for the sector to drive employment requires collaboration between industry stakeholders, government and educational institutions.

‘We need to have conversations around ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to access and thrive in these jobs. Collaboratively we should be developing targeted training and education programmes that are aligned to the needs of the industry. Alongside should be the promotion of apprenticeships, internships and vocational training initiatives.

‘This is where we have to acknowledge the value of SMMEs, which play a critical role in driving local economic development and creating sustainable livelihoods for communities that surround mining operations. But SMMEs often face barriers to entry and growth. This is largely because they have limited access to finance, market opportunities and technical expertise.’

Probe IMT recommends the creation of a supportive ecosystem that will enable SMMEs to access procurement opportunities and build their capacity, ‘enough to integrate into the broader value chain’, says Roselt.

‘Inevitably this will lead to the creation of diverse and sustainable entrepreneurial ventures and the generation of economic opportunities that extend beyond the life of the mining project.’

Probe IMT is engaged in significant projects across Africa, including the expansion of existing operations. The company continues its ongoing commitment to implementing and investing in advanced technologies, especially those that promote sustainable mining practices, environmental preservation and responsible resource management.

‘As we’re all well aware, mining has come under the spotlight as consumers increasingly demand environmentally friendly and socially responsible products and practices. Companies failing to meet their expectations risk losing out on a significant portion of the market,’ says Roselt. ‘Even regulatory bodies are placing greater importance on ethical and environmentally friendly business practices. I think that as the global economy becomes more interconnected, industries like mining, construction, agriculture, marine and industrial need to adapt to the challenges and opportunities presented by the global marketplace.’

The organisation has already proven its ability to adapt to change and diversify its offerings in response to these shifting market demands, staying one step ahead of trends where it can, even if that requires expansion into new geographic markets, particularly emerging ones.

‘We believe that expanding our global footprint and establishing strategic partnerships will be crucial to drive growth for the benefit of not just our own company but those in the industries that choose to work with us,’ says Roselt.

‘It is the only way to unlock the enormous potential of African businesses.’

By Kerry Dimmer
Image: Marc Shoul