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Speaking on the implementation of responsible mining frameworks across the continent, Mathilde Jean, NGO and Civil Society Dialogue Manager at Eramet, and JJ Messner, Lead for Purchasing at the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), outlined how collaboration, transparency and local engagement are turning ambition into measurable outcomes in an exclusive MITV interview at Mining Indaba 2026.

At the core of the discussion is a growing recognition that global standards, once seen as externally imposed, are increasingly being adapted to reflect African realities. Jean emphasized that meaningful implementation hinges on trust-building between mining companies and host communities. “Standards only work when they are understood, co-owned and embedded locally,” she noted, pointing to Eramet’s experience in fostering open dialogue with civil society stakeholders in its African operations.

This shift toward inclusivity has proven critical in overcoming historical skepticism toward large-scale mining projects. By involving NGOs, community representatives and labour groups early in the process, companies are not only improving compliance but also strengthening their social licence to operate. Jean added that structured engagement platforms have enabled more constructive conversations around environmental management, land use and community development outcomes.

Messner, representing IRMA, reinforced the importance of independent verification in building credibility. IRMA’s standard, widely regarded as one of the most rigorous voluntary frameworks in the mining sector, relies on third-party audits and public disclosure of results. According to Messner, this transparency is particularly valuable in African contexts where governance gaps can undermine confidence in corporate commitments. “When audit findings are publicly available, it creates accountability not just for companies, but for all stakeholders involved,” he said.

One of the key success factors highlighted by both speakers is the alignment of sustainability standards with commercial incentives. As global supply chains come under increasing scrutiny, particularly in sectors such as electric vehicles and renewable energy, buyers are placing greater emphasis on responsibly sourced minerals. Messner noted that downstream demand is becoming a powerful driver of change. “Procurement teams are no longer just looking at cost and quality; they are assessing environmental and social performance as a core criterion,” he explained.

This shift is beginning to reshape investment flows into Africa’s mining sector. Projects that demonstrate adherence to recognized standards such as IRMA are finding it easier to attract financing and secure long-term offtake agreements. Jean highlighted that this creates a virtuous cycle, where improved sustainability performance translates into stronger economic viability.

However, both Jean and Messner acknowledged that challenges remain. Capacity constraints, regulatory inconsistencies and the cost of compliance can pose barriers, particularly for smaller operators. To address this, there is a growing emphasis on phased implementation and capacity-building initiatives that support companies and communities alike.

Looking ahead, the outlook is cautiously optimistic. The convergence of stakeholder expectations, market pressures and proven frameworks is creating a more enabling environment for responsible mining in Africa. As Jean concluded, “The progress we are seeing shows that global standards are not just aspirational, they are achievable when adapted thoughtfully and implemented collaboratively.” For a sector under increasing global scrutiny, that progress may define the future of African mining.

Eramet’s Grande Côte in Senegal

Eramet’s Grande Côte operation is a major mineral sand mine on Senegal’s Atlantic coast and a key global supplier of ilmenite and zircon, used in pigments and ceramics.

Scale & production: Operating since 2014, GCO is among the world’s leading producers, with close to 1 Mtpa and a 20+ year LoM.

Mining method: Uses a mobile dredging system that moves along coastal dunes, extracting and product while progressively rehabilitating mined areas.

Economic impact: Employs over 2,000 people (mostly local), has attracted ~$800 million in investment, and contributes significantly to Senegal’s economy.

Sustainability: Known for progressive land rehabilitation, water recycling, and alignment with IRMA responsible mining standards.

Challenges: Faces ongoing scrutiny around resettlement, environmental impact, and community relations.