Modern Mining April 2023

MTN Business, Huawei, Minetec, and Miniandante Mining Company recently signed an MoU for 5G technology equipment and connectivity. connectivity issues and transform their operations while implementing effective use cases such as real-time operational data analysis, automation, and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). In short, 5G networks are key to modern mines of the future. These mines will be built using a combination of technologies to create reliable communication

Technology is helping miners to modernise.

between personnel operating the mines, machine-to-machine communication, and information gathering, to enable greater levels of efficiency and safety. In fact, Accenture and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have found that digital initiatives can help South Africa’s mining industry alone create R213 billion ($14 billion) in value by 2026. In the past, Wi-Fi networks were suitable to a certain extent, but they have their limitations. Now, with the availability of private networks and networks-as-a-service, it is important for the mining industry to collaborate to explore the value that can be derived from the enhanced use cases 5G networks offer. On the journey toward enabling the first 5G mine in South Africa and modernising the mining sector, March 2022 saw a memorandum of understand ing signed by MTN Business, Huawei, Minetec, and Miniandante Mining Company for the provision of 5G technology equipment and connectivity. Transforming the mining industry While the mining industry is trying to navigate the opportunities and threats brought about by these factors, companies in the sec tor have started relying on solution providers like MTN and their industry partners to fill the gaps and enable the benefits emerging technologies bring. From IoT to cloud-based analytics solutions, to secure their networks and applications, miners are turning to tech nology to advance digital operations. However, few service providers can deliver a complete end-to end solution. MTN Business, which saw an opportunity to leverage its expertise in telecommunications and technology to help trans form the mining industry in South Africa and Africa, has developed a suite of solutions and guiding principles designed for its 5G Private Networking to address the challenges faced by the industry and to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. Forming partnerships with leading companies in the mining industry, such as Canyon Coal, as well as technology partners such as Ericsson and Huawei, MTN Business has developed and imple mented customised 5G Private Networking solutions that address the needs of the mining industry. Starting with their specific needs and requirements, MTN Business works closely with mining com panies, and industry bodies and regulatory agencies, to understand

Miners are turning to technology to advance digital operations.

and develop customised solutions that address their challenges. This is not a one-size-fits-all approach, nor is it a technology company hoping to get recognition for one or two projects. MTN Business plans to scale its digital solutions by partnering with more mining companies across the African continent and expanding its network infrastructure to reach remote locations. The company also plans to invest in research and development to stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies. MTN Business has developed a blueprint for the deployment and architecture of the solutions that will contribute to solving the critical challenges mines have been experiencing, regardless of their technological requirements. In collaboration with its various partners, including Huawei Technologies South Africa and Minetec Smart Mining, MTN Business is working to help the mining industry navigate the significant, important technological changes and the transformation of traditional processes. 

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April 2023  MODERN MINING  31