In South Africa, the Mining Indaba conference, a major annual event for global investors and African governments, is taking place in Cape Town. In parallel, a counter-summit has been organized by local communities affected by mining operations to highlight the often overlooked negative impacts of extraction activities. The event seeks to provide a platform for those whose voices are generally absent from discussions dominated by corporate and governmental interests.

Eric Mokuoa, the president of the organizing collective for the counter-summit, emphasized that the Mining Indaba serves primarily the interests of businesses and politicians, neglecting the narratives of communities directly impacted by mining. Many areas near mining operations continue to suffer from significant environmental and social challenges, which the counter-summit aims to bring to light. This initiative reflects the growing recognition of the need for an inclusive dialogue that considers the perspectives of all stakeholders involved in the mining industry.

The simultaneous holding of these two events in the same city underscores the stark contrast in priorities surrounding mining activities in Africa. While the Mining Indaba focuses on investment opportunities and economic growth, the counter-summit addresses the urgent social issues faced by local populations, advocating for their rights and calling attention to the necessity for more equitable practices within the mining sector. Such actions highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition for communities impacted by industrial activities and the potential for future collaboration to improve conditions for those affected.