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Conference Chair
Jacob Thamage
Coordinator
 Diamond Hub, Botswana

Jacob Thamage, a mining and mineral policy expert, he has over 25 years of experience working for the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources in Botswana. Over this period, he was accountable for regulatory functions in the minerals value chain. Namely project evaluation at exploitation, mining, processing and marketing. His responsibilities included creating an enabling environment for growing the diamonds’ value chain. Prior to that, he worked as the Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for the development and administration of Botswana’s Mineral Policies and Legislation. Internationally, Jacob led the Botswana team in the negotiations and implementation of the Kimberley Process Certification scheme from 2002 to 2016. He has also represented the country in the development of the SADC Mining Protocol and contributions to the development of the African Mining Vision. He was focal point in discussions between the country the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative International Secretariat. Jacob holds a B. Engineering (Mining) from the Technical University of Nova Scotia, Halifax, and an MBA from Nijenrode University, Breukelen NL


Keynote Speakers
Hon. Lefoko Maxwell Moagi
Minister
 Ministry of Minerals and Energy, Botswana

An experienced and highly skilled leader focused in developing innovative solutions for professional challenges, optimising production, and maximising resources in various organisations including metals and diamond mines, construction and engineering firms. He has held higher positions in various mining companies. He has broad business skills set that include strategic planning, financial acumen, project management, engineering, operational efficiency, team management, and revenue generation. Has a strong focus on people development and an ability for striking rapport with stakeholders. His focus is on ensuring sustainable power and energy availability for Botswana through use of generation, alternatives and climate friendly products.
Mr Vuslat Bayoglu
Managing Director
 Menar

Vuslat Bayoglu is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of mining investment company Menar, which has controlling stakes in Canyon Coal, Zululand Anthracite Colliery, Kangra and East Manganese. He holds an honours degree in Mechanical Engineering and has almost 20 years of experience in the mining industry. During that period, he led the group’s subsidiaries from junior to mid-tier status through organic growth and acquisitions. Bayoglu is a hands-on investor with a keen interest in bettering the South African economy. He is actively involved in seeking solutions to key issues faced by South Africa. Bayoglu also serves on the board of the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) and recently became a director sitting on the board of the World Coal Association.
Mr Thabiso Sekano
Head Mining & Metals
 Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

Thabiso Sekano is the head of the Mining and Metals business unit at the IDC. He has spent the last 15 years at the IDC working on deals that cover, mergers and acquisitions, BEE structuring’s, project finance, standard term loan facilities, guarantees and more. Thabiso started his career as a mining graduate at Anglo Coal prior to joining the National Nuclear Regulator where he held various roles regulating the mining industry and scrap processors. A mining engineer by profession, he graduated at University of the Witwatersrand in 97 and holds an MBA from University of Pretoria
Michelle Manook
CEO
 World Coal Association

Michelle Manook is Chief Executive of the World Coal Association. She has held the role since July 2019. Previously, she was Head of Strategy, Government and Communications for Europe, Asia and Africa for the multinational company, Orica. Her career spans over 25 years in senior roles in the energy, oil and gas and mining industries in both developed and developing markets. She has also held non-executive director positions in energy and healthcare sectors and early in her career, worked in policy and public affairs for The Government of Western Australia. In 2022, Michelle Manook received international recognition in the global mining industry. Michelle was named one of the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining (WIM100), was identified by the Mining Journal as one of the 50 most influential key players in the mining industry. Additionally, an article about breakthrough female leadership in The Australian (“Miners Favour Females in Challenging Times”), highlighted Michelle as one to watch as she called for more rigour in the energy transition debate.


Speakers
James Campbell (Panel Chair)
Managing Director
 Botswana Diamonds plc

James Campbell has spent over 30-years in the diamond industry in a variety of leadership roles both in major and junior companies. He is currently MD of Botswana Diamonds and also a NED of Shefa Gems. Previously he held leadership roles at Rockwell Diamonds, Stellar Diamonds, Lucara Diamond, African Diamonds, West African Diamonds and De Beers where he spent over 20-years with notable appointments including GM Exploration and Nicky Oppenheimer's Personal Assistant. James is also Chairman of the leadership development NPO Common Purpose SA. James holds a degree in Mining & Exploration Geology from the Royal School of Mines (Imperial College, London) and an MBA with distinction from Durham University. James is a Fellow of the IOM3, SAIMM and IODSA. He is also a C.Eng (UK), C.Sci (UK) and Pr.Sci.Nat.

Bakani Motlhabani
Executive Head of Technology & Technical Services
 Debswana

Executive head in charge of integrating all technical functions to drive the strategy of the company (Engineering & Asset Management, Ore Processing, Mining, Mineral Resources Management, Digital & Automation, Information management, Efficiency & Productivity Improvement, Projects Management Office)
Johane Mchive
Karowe Mine General Manager
 Lucara Botswana

A versatile and well-rounded Mining Engineer with over 20 years of experience in the Mining Industry. Johane Mchive graduated from Witswatersrand University in 2001 with a BSc (Hon) in Mining Engineering. Mchive has held strategic leadership roles throughout his career with his foundation in the diamond mining industry in Botswana. One of his qualification highlights is the Advanced Management and Leadership Programme from the University of Oxford in 2023.
Dr. Leon Daniels
Director
 Pangolin Diamonds

Dr Leon Daniels. PhD in Geochemistry from University of Cape Town. Came to Botswana in 1980 as Project Geologist for Falconbridge at Tsabong and subsequently developed firm roots in Botswana focusing on diamond exploration and a small dallying in gold. In mid-1980’s was part of the team that evaluated and developed the Dokolwayo kimberlite in Swaziland for Transhex. It was at this time that he was directly involved in the development of the first independent marketing of primary kimberlite production under a tender system in Europe. Currently, Leon is the CEO of Pangolin Diamonds exploring for diamonds in Botswana, with a focus in the Central District.
Mmetla Masire
Managing Director
Okavango Diamond Company

Mmetla Masire was appointed ODC Managing Director in July 2021. Mr Mmetla Masire has over 30-year experience in the diamond industry and has held several senior positions in Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. He joins Okavango Diamond Company, from the Ministry of Ministry of Mineral Resources, Green Technology & Energy Security where he served as Permanent Secretary and Mineral Sector Advisor. Prior to this role, he was the Chief Executive Officer at Water Utilities Corporation. He was instrumental is relocating De Beers diamonds sales to Botswana and in promoting the diamond Cutting and Polishing Industry in Botswana. Mr Masire holds a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Electrical & Electronics from the University of Wales (UWIST). Mr Masire has served on several boards including De Beers, Debswana, Diamond Trading Company Botswana, Minerals Development Company Botswana, Botswana Tertiary Authority (now known as Botswana Qualifications Authority), and Human Resource Development Council to name a few.
Omogolo “Bonjo” Mathumo
Director HB Botswana
 HB Antwerp

Omogolo is an accomplished executive, renowned for his exceptional storytelling abilities and unwavering dedication to understanding and addressing complex challenges in the sector. With a forward-thinking approach, he passionately explores the potential impacts of various issues, whether they pertain to mining operations, the industry, or the welfare of communities involved. As an executive in the mining industry, Omogolo's unique blend of storytelling prowess, deep industry knowledge, and genuine passion for making a positive impact continues to drive him forward. With a focus on sustainable practices and community engagement, inspiring others to embrace responsible business practices and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society.
Alan M. Clegg Pr.Eng Pr.CPM PMP FSAIMM FIOQ F.Inst.D (Panel Chair)

 Independent Mining & Energy Professional

Mr. Clegg, is a Mining, Natural Resources & Energy Industry Professional and Independent Chairman & Director or Resources Companies with over 40 years’ experience gained from working mining & minerals projects, process & metallurgical industries and related supply industries in more than 160 countries on all the continents. He is a registered Professional Mining Engineer (Pr.Eng), a registered Professional Construction Project Manager (Pr.CPM), a registered Project Management Professional (PMP), and carries professional Fellowship status with South African Institute of Mining & Metallurgy (FSAIMM) and the Institute of Quarrying (FIOQ) as well a professional memberships of all the major Mining Institutes globally and is a recognized mining technical assessment, reporting and mining project valuation expert with key experience in stock exchange listings and the requirements for successful capital raising. He has advised a number of governments on Mining Policy, Legislation & Regulation since 1990, as well as being the architect & executor of practical plans for unlocking the potential value of their resources base.
Neeraj Saxena
Country Director
 Jindal Africa

Neeraj Saxena is the Country Director at Jindal Botswana Pty Ltd with responsibility for Project Planning, Coordination and Liaise with All Concerned stakeholders, Contracts Management, and Project Monitoring for Coal Mining, Power Plant and CTL Projects in Jindal Mmamabula Energy Project. Prior to joining Jindal Botswana Pty Ltd, Neeraj Saxena worked as Technical Assistant to Chairman Jindal Group for Power Business at Jindal Steel & Power Ltd, New Delhi. Notable is his 9 years as Deputy General Manager for Jindal Power Limited, which is the Power arm of JSPL group. Neeraj Saxena received Bachelors and Master’s Degree from Kharkov State Polytechnical University, Ukraine in Mechanical Engineering. Completed his MBA with Gold Medal from O P Jindal Global University, India and University of Texas, Dallas starting from 2010 till 2011. His major interests are in Business Development, Project Planning and Monitoring. Has also worked in areas of Erection & Commissioning of Power Plant units ranging from 20 MW to 600 MW. His Specialization is in bringing up the Green Field Projects with overall Project life cycle.
Mr Mike Mohlala
Director
 Matsoku Investments/Leago Colliery

Mike Mohlala is an experienced Mining Engineer and Executive with an exceptional proven history of working in the Mining & Minerals industry. He has worked for great companies like BHP Billiton and Glencore as a Mining Engineer gaining valuable experience in Management, Operations and Strategic Leadership skills. He is a strong entrepreneur with a Bachelors Degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Johannesburg and he has been threw the Executive development programme by Wits Business School. Backed with 14 years Mining and Construction experience he has ample management and great leadership skills to lead any major organisation. He is currently serving on the Board of few Mining and Renewable Energy Projects in South Africa.
Mr George Roach
Chief Executive Officer
 Premier African Minerals

George Roach has extensive experience in natural resources sector in Africa. He has successfully obtained licenses and concluded mineral exploration and exploitation agreements in the entire SADC region, Ethiopia and most of the CEMAC and ECOWAS regions. Under the auspices of Exploration Services, he provided consultancy to prospective exploration companies and has acted in significant capacities for a number of start-ups that have subsequently listed on AIM and TSX-V. Prior to founding Premier, Mr Roach was Managing Director Africa, for UraMin Inc.
Simon Purkiss
Director
 Consolidated Mining and Investments Ltd

Simon Purkiss is a metallurgical engineer and has developed projects in South Africa, production in base metals and PGM’s and the development and sale of new metallurgical processes. He was a founder of European Nickel PLC, which developed to full bankable levels, the heap leaching of nickel laterites and Consolidated Nickel Mines r-edeveloping nickel sulphide operations. Prior to this, he worked in Turkey, Philippines, Russia and South Africa as Business Development manager for BHP Billiton.
Dr. Wolf Martinick
Executive Chairman
 Botala Energy Ltd

Wolf is an agronomist and environmental scientist. He has 40 years’ experience addressing the environmental and social aspects of the oil, gas, mineral resources and land development industries in various countries, especially Australia and Southern Africa. He was the owner and founding director of MBS Environmental, a major socio-environmental consultancy attending to resource developments across Australasia and numerous other countries, especially Southern Africa. He is a former managing director, chairman and non-executive director of several ASX and AIM-listed exploration and mining companies with interests in Australia, Africa and South and Central America and is familiar with project development.
Dr Antony Harwood (Panel Chair)
President and CEO
 Montero Mining and Exploration Ltd.

Tony is a geologist with 35 years of exploration and mining experience. A founder and now President and CEO of Montero Mining, a TSXV-listed gold exploration company that has explored extensively in Africa. Prior to this, he was the Executive Chairman of Universal Coal, and listed the company on the ASX raising over A$20 million on IPO. The company now has operating coal mines in South Africa. Tony also listed Africo Resources on the TSX raising C$20 million to develop a copper – cobalt project in the DRC. Tony served as VP Global Generative Exploration for Placer Dome Inc., now Barrick Gold, a major Canadian gold miner for 8 years. He has been a non-executive director of a number of listed companies, including; Endeavour Mining, Adamus Resources, Auryx Gold, African Gold Group, and Lapplandgold miners. Tony is currently a director of East African Metals, Tesoro Minerals and Hudson Resources. Tony holds a B.Sc. (Hons), Ph.D. Economic Geology, the University of Wales, UK.
Olebogeng Sentsho
Director
 Mahene Diamonds

Olebogeng Sentsho is a mineral economist and entrepreneur with interests in mining and energy. Mrs. Sentsho is an alumni of the 2017 Mandela Washington Fellowship, the flagship programme for the Young African Leaders Initiative, run by the US State department and she holds an LLB degree and an Msc. in Mining Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand. Olebogeng last served as the Group Chief Executive Officer at Ayana Group. The company is focused on providing services and funding to support emerging entrepreneurs in Mining and mining services. Mrs Sentsho believes that a more structured and Afro-centric approach to mining will grow the African economy and enable Africa to benefit from the minerals it rightfully owns. A recipient of the inaugural “Outstanding woman in Mining Award” at the Youth in Mining Business awards in 2016, the Winner of the “Leaders of Tomorrow” Award at the 2019 Mining Indaba and a nominee of the rising star at the Mines and Money Conference London, one of the Mail and Guardian’s Top 200 Young South African 2020, The Head of the Mining and Technical Engineering Services Sector at the Progressive Youth in Business Organisation, Olebogeng is passionate about investment, the African economy, mining and socially responsible business practices.
Mr Charles Siwawa
Chief Executive Officer
 Botswana Chamber of Mines

Charles Siwawa is currently employed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Botswana Chamber of Mines based in Gaborone, a position he has occupied since 2010. He holds a Masters Degree in Industrial and Administrative Sciences from City University London, UK over a Mining Engineering Degree from the University of Leeds, UK. Mr. Siwawa has extensive background in the mining industry in Botswana. Prior to joining the Botswana Chamber of Mines, he was employed by Debswana Diamond Company in various capacities from 1982 until 2009.
Nametso Violet Ntsosa-Carr
SADC Chairperson
SADC Women in Mining Association

Ms Nametso Ntsosa-Carr is the current Chairperson of SADC Women in Mining based in Botswana, and the President of Women in Business Association (WIBA) Botswana. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social and Health Care from Salford University, UK and also an avid entrepreneur, who has investments in different sectors including mining iron ore and limestone. She is selling washed coal of Minergy from Botswana mines and supplying Botswana beef to SADC countries with further expansion across other regions. Ms Ntsosa-Carr is one the founders of Women In Mining Botswana Organisation (WIMBO), hence encourages women to go into different fields of mining as women are capable in the sector as much as men.
Mr Sam Chikowore
Chief Executive Officer
Exporien Mining P/L.

Sam Chikowore is a family man, married with a son and a daughter, has a lifelong background in the mining industry spanning back to 1993. He initially was involved with a chrome-mining venture which had operations on the Zimbabwe Great-Dyke. After a couple of years in distribution, Sam took up a new role managing earth-moving equipment with contracts at the country's largest open-cast platinum miner with another contract running at a chrome smelter. Sam was later to leave that project to start his own chrome mining venture on a tribute basis working with the two leading ferro-chrome producing companies in Zimbabwe at the time. In 2002 Sam set up a new company Exporien Mining P/L, coming in as Managing Director. Sam sought to use the Exporien vehicle to diversify into other mineral commodities outside his chrome comfort zone.
Mr Xavier Prevost (Panel Chair)
Senior Coal Analyst
 XMP Consulting CC

Xavier has a MSc in Engineering Geology UMSA; Diploma in Mining and Exploration from the Montan University, Leoben, Austria, Graduate Diploma in Engineering and MSc. Mining Engineering from Wits. He has been in coal since 1977, established the Geological Survey’s National Coal Database (NCDB); was Genmin IT Exploration Manager and joined the Minerals Bureau, DME in 1995, as Chief Mineral Economist; Coal and Hydrocarbons. He was appointed Coal Senior Analyst, Wood Mackenzie, Southern Africa and since 2009 is consulting privately with XMP Consulting. He promotes South Africa’s coal mining industry within government and industry groups, lectures at Universities as well as companies on coal science, i.e. coal reserves, economics, quality control, marketing and clean coal technologies. He has extensive experience in reserves and resources. His main tasks are optimisation of coal utilisation and marketing, economic empowerment in coal, evaluation of coal reserves, implementation of clean coal technologies (CCTs) and impact of the use of fossil fuels. Xavier belongs to several local and international coal committees and groups involved in coal science and technology.
Parshant Kumar Goyal
Chief Executive Officer
 Jindal Africa

Mr Parshant Kumar Goyal, has been with Jindal Steel and Power Limited (JSPL) for 16 years, arrived in South Africa 2011 with the objective of initiating and establishing JSPL's operations in Africa. Through his efforts, he has effectively established a strong foundation which has enabled Jindal Africa to launch a diverse range of operations with the aim of achieving its continental aspirations. Mr. Goyal attained a degree in Mining Engineering from Bihar Institute of Technology in Sindri, India, and has extensive experience in Coal India ltd, ArcelorMittal and JSPL operations. He upholds the belief that life presents both opportunities and challenges, which can be overcome with confidence and transparency in professional and personal dealings. He remains a true inspiration to his colleagues.
Edwin T Elias
General Manager
 Morupule Coal Mine

Mr. Edwin T. Elias is currently the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Morupule Coal Mine (MCM). He is a Metallurgical Engineer by profession with at least 20 years of experience within the Diamond Industry business. Prior to his appointment as CEO, he was the General Manager of MCM and Group Head of Ore Processing for Debswana Mining Company. Mr. Elias has also spent at least 2.5 years as Head of Maintenance and Process for De Beers Canada, based at Victor Mine - Ontario, Canada. Victor Mine, a remote based open pit diamond mine operation, accessible through fly-in and fly-out arrangement. Mr. Elias has an Executive Masters in Business Administration (EMBA) from the University of Toronto – Rotman School of Management, Toronto, Canada; a Bachelor of Science (Bsc) – Metallurgical Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, USA and an Emergin Leaders Program (ELP) Certification from the London Business School, London, UK. He is also an inaugural Board Member and currently Board Chairman of the Botswana Institute For Technology, Research and Innovation (BITRI) and a Deputy Board Council Member of the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST). In addition, Mr. Elias is also a Chairman of the Botswana Chamber of Mines (BCM) and Chairman of the Morupule Rehabilitation Trust. Mr. Elias is a Non-Executive Director of Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL) and Board Member of BIFM. He is also a member of the IODSA (Institute of Directors in South Africa) and a member of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum (CIM).
Mr Jacques Badenhorst
Chief Executive Officer
 Maatla Resources (Pty) Ltd

Jacques Badenhorst is a metallurgist with over 27 years’ experience in operations and project development and management of diverse mining projects, ranging from coal, gold, platinum, manganese, heavy minerals and diamond. He is a co-founder of Maatla Resources and responsible for implementing the coal business as the Chief Executive Officer. He has been the Managing Director of the ASX-listed Zamanco Minerals Limited and co-founder of the minerals processing company MRD. He is a member of the South African Institute for Mining and Metallurgy, the Mine Metallurgical Managers Association and the Institute of Directors SA. In the past, Jacques has worked for Grinaker / LTA Process Engineering, Anglo-American Corporation and MRD, implementing and operating various medium and large-scale mineral projects.
Divyesh Kalan
Business Development Executive
Makoya Advisory

Divyesh has been involved in the logistics Industry for more than 20 years in various professional, consulting and leadership roles. His operational and commercial experience and knowledge spans across production, warehousing, road distribution, rail, ports and inland terminals. Divyesh spent nearly nine years as the Commercial General Manager at Transnet where he was responsible for the negotiations and conclusion of long-term Take or Pay contracts with potential customers for port and rail, price determination and negotiations, capacity allocation frameworks and governance across all channels, strategies and implementation for enabling emerging miners. Commodity strategies and solutions and responsibilities across most commodities, including the major bulk commodities, namely coal, iron ore and manganese. Divyesh was appointed as the Executive Head of Makoya Advisory Services to lead the business in the areas of logistics and supply chain advisory services to the public and private sector.
Martin Eales
CEO
 Ironveld plc

Martin joined Ironveld in early 2020 and has overseen the Company's transition into production. Prior to that, Martin spent 5 years as CEO at Rainbow Rare Earths and had a 15 year career in the City of London rising to the role of Managing Director at RBC Capital Markets with a strong track record advising natural resource companies on fundraisings and other corporate transactions. He is also a qualified Chartered Accountant.
Andrew Pedley
CEO
 Ilala Metals Limited

Mr Pedley holds a Master’s degree in Geology from the Camborne School of Mines and has worked as a geologist in Africa for 25 years including roles as Exploration Manager through to VP Exploration, all for Junior Explorers. His strength is interpretation of data and generation of targets and discoveries. He was recently VP exploration for Pasofino Gold (TSX-V:VEIN) where he added >1Moz Au to the M+I Resource. Recently he has taken on more corporate roles leveraging of his technical strength; he joined Gladiator Resources (ASX:GLA) as a non-executive Director in August and is currently the CEO of Ilala Metals Limited. Mr. Pedley is a CP/QP for a number of commodities. He resides in South Africa.
Moemedi Moyo
Sector Lead Mining and Natural Resources
 Rand Merchant Bank Botswana

Moemedi Moyo is a Sector Lead for mining and natural resources at Rand Merchant Bank, the corporate Investment Banking division of First National Bank Botswana. He holds a decade worth of experience in banking with extensive experience in supporting and facilitating banking transactions for clients in varying sectors ranging from Insurance, telecommunications, retail, construction and mining. He also champions the Sustainable Finance and ESG advisory at RMB Botswana. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in areas of business development, corporate finance and sustainable finance. He holds post graduate qualifications in areas of Infrastructure Finance, Enterprise Risk Management
Mr Philip le Roux
CEO
 Arcadia Minerals

Philip le Roux has 30 years’ experience in exploration, mining and economic geology, with extensive exposure in different geological terrains worldwide. He has progressed numerous projects from greenfields to feasibility and into production. Philip is member of the Geological Society of South Africa and holds an Honours Degree in Geology from the University of Stellenbosch.
Tsietsi Molai (Panel Chair)
Managing Director
 Emor Mining (Pty) Ltd

Tsietsi Molai, founder and Managing Director of Emor Mining. Over 10 years of working experience with multinationals as a management consultant, he is also a successful 4x entrepreneur in various industries. An avid golfer with a passion for traveling and wine. Emor Mining is a capital raising and M&A advisory services firm to tier 2 and tier 3 mining companies. We assist these mining projects to raise equity, debt (different types), streaming, and royalty agreements. Our focus is on mining projects on the African continent while we raise capital in Africa and internationally.
Tresor Chovu
CEO
 Chovu International Holdings Ltd

Trésor Chovu is an investor, consultant, political analyst and entrepreneur who is focused on the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sub-Saharan Africa. He gained experience as a business development consultant for UK and global companies. Over the last 10 years, he successfully helped various clients from Europe, Asia, America and the UAE in the acquisition of multi million dollars financial, mining and energy assets and in the development of infrastructure projects in Africa. He owns mining assets across Africa and He is now focused on the DRC market specifically in Energy, Mining and ICT. Mr Chovu is fluent in both English and French. He is an international speaker with a particular focus on investments in the mining and energy sector. He contributes various media and forums such as the BBC, Africa Mining Forum, European Mining Convention among others. He recently featured in the Energy DRC report produced by Africa Oil and Power in collaboration with the African Energy Chamber. Furthermore, Mr Chovu is assisting the office of AGOA DRC in shaping strategies for the improvement of the DRC business climate and to help attract US investments. He holds a bachelor degree in Political Science and Development Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in England.
Dr Michael Seeger (Panel Chair)
Managing Director
MX Mining Capital Advisors GmbH

A Mining Engineer with +23 years’ experience in mine development, mining operations and mining finance. He started his career with Iscor Mining, has worked with major mining companies in Africa, South America, North America and Europe including Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, Anglo Coal, Exxaro, Kaiser Aluminium and Outokumpu. Has developed, structured and financed several mining projects in the mid-tier and junior mining sector in diverse commodities, including coal, gold and metals. Co-founder of ASX listed Universal Coal and director of Maatla Energy in Botswana which is developing the Mmamabula coal mine and CTL project.
Director of MX Mining Capital Advisors, which provides mining financing solutions for mining projects in Africa in diverse commodities.
Ian McGeorge
Geologist
 Mount Burgess Mining

Ian McGeorge is an exploration geologist with almost 40 years’ experience. He is a director of Mount Burgess Mining NL and owner of independent Gaborone based consultancy iQuest Geology. With a focus on Botswana, Ian has been engaged in many exploration projects for commodities including diamonds, gold, base metals, industrial minerals and groundwater, usually in a field role. He has contributed to published geological mapping in South Africa and Botswana and is experienced in independent reporting. Ian holds a degree in geology from Glasgow University and an M.Sc. in mineral exploration from Rhodes University, South Africa. He is registered as a Chartered Geologist with The Geological Society, London.
Mr Koketso Jackson
General Manager
 Mupane Gold Mining - Hawks Mining Company

Koketso Gabriel Jackson is a renowned Geoscientist and transformational leader, with varied mining industry and academic teaching experience. Mr. Jackson is the General Manager of Mupane Gold Mining (owned by Hawks Mining Company). Mr Jackson started his career in 1989 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Botswana. During this period, he also obtained a Mining Technology Master’s Degree from the Nancy School of Mines in France. After spending eight years with BCL Mine, he then joined the University of Botswana as a Lecturer in the Mining Department. Four years later Mr Jackson moved to Tati Nickel Mining Company where he spent fifteen years, in different responsibilities that included, Chief Geologist, Mineral Resources Manager, Mining Technical Services Manager, and Manager Mining. He has a good track record with managing complexities and change at Executive level. Prior to joining Mupane Gold Mine, Mr Jackson was with the Botswana Geoscience Institute management for six years handling a variety of research portfolios that included the management of national geohazards issues.
Ms Mandy Malebe
CEO
 Lethabo Exploration

Mandy Malebe is a 35-year-old young black woman entrepreneur with an educational background in law and short-term insurance. Professionally, since 2011, Mandy has acquired a variety of business experience and has over the years held various leadership roles in the imports and exports of valuable cargo. 2020 saw Mandy become the CEO of Lethabo Exploration Propriety Limited (“Lethabo”), which is South Africa’s first 100% black-owned exploration and mining company to hold a mining right, and which includes the majority of Limpopo’s strategic minerals, such as platinum group metals, chrome, vanadium and iron ore amongst others. In November 2022, Mandy was nominated and elected to serve as one of the Deputy Chairpersons of the Exploration and Junior Miners Leadership Forum at the Minerals Council South Africa. Mandy continues to be an indispensable pillar as one of South Africa’s youngest women CEOs in the mining sector.
Mr Tiyapo Ngwisanyi
Managing Director
 Kavango Minerals

Tiyapo (Tipps) Ngwisanyi is a geoscientist who began his career with the Botswana Department of Geological Survey in 1988 as a geophysicist. He is currently Managing Director of Kavango Minerals (Pty) Ltd and Director in Kanye Resources (Pty) Ltd. Previously he was Director of Department of Geological Survey (DGS) and CEO of Botswana Geoscience Institute.
Nchakha Moloi
Executive Chairman
Motjoli Iron Ore Company

Mr Moloi started his career in research at the Wits University Geology Department and Anglo American Research Laboratories. He then joined De Beers in diamond exploration followed by an appointment as mine geologist / engineering geology at RTZ’s Palabora Mine. He left to join the Wits Economics Department/ANC Department of Economic Planning to start his work in minerals and energy policy research and development. Following employment as a business analyst at the Industrial Development Corporation, Mr Moloi joined the Department of Minerals and Resources where he played a central role in the development of South African mining sector reforms. He is currently the Executive Chairman and Shareholder in Motjoli Resources, a junior resources company that has established a significant foot prints in the South African Mining Landscape.
Mr James Allan
CEO
 Sable Exploration and Mining Limited

James has worked in the mining, and mining financial services, industries since 1983. After graduating at the University of the Witwatersrand in 1982, he worked at Wankie Colliery in Zimbabwe before joining Boart International in 1985. James worked as a mining analyst on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange from 1990 to 2003 before moving into corporate finance and starting Sable Platinum. James, as the top-rated diamond analyst on the JSE, led the minority shareholders in 2001 and gained an extra $2 per share when Anglo American and the Oppenheimer family made a bid to de-list De Beers. This resulted in the transaction being restructured and the Government of Botswana acquiring 15% of De Beers.