Reimagining African Mining Through Connected Systems

At Electra Mining Africa 2026, ABB South Africa’s Local Business Line Manager for Automation, Charl Marais, presented a vision where mining operations extend beyond physical presence—where workers safely manage hazardous environments from remote control rooms.

While the expo showcased futuristic technologies like electric vehicles and automated systems, Marais emphasized that human expertise will remain central to African mining’s future. His background as an electrical engineer who worked his way up through industrial machinery gives him a unique perspective on how technology can augment rather than replace human capabilities.

Connecting Dispersed Operations

Marais explained that many mines already possess sophisticated equipment but lack the digital integration to operate efficiently. With systems often siloed—a grinding circuit running on one control platform, concentrators on another—mines function as collections of independent machines rather than unified operations.

ABB’s approach connects these isolated components through a single intelligent network. This allows operators to monitor and control entire processes from centralized locations, enhancing both safety and productivity.

Prioritizing People Beyond Automation

For Marais, technology’s primary role is not job replacement but rather worker safety—removing people from hazardous environments while retaining their expertise. He envisions a future where:

  • Workers operate machinery remotely from safer locations
  • Technology creates physical barriers between personnel and hazards
  • Human insight guides automated processes

This approach aligns with Africa’s unique context, where mining is a major employer and economic driver—requiring solutions that both improve efficiency and create sustainable employment opportunities.

The Value of Integrated Systems

Marais highlighted how integrated digital control systems (DCS) can unlock significant benefits:

  • Real-time visibility across entire operations
  • Optimized resource utilization
  • Predictive maintenance capabilities
  • Improved decision-making through data analytics

By transforming mines from collections of machines into connected ecosystems, technology can enhance both productivity and the quality of work for mining professionals.