Electra Mining Africa is one of the world’s leading mining, engineering and industrial trade exhibitions, bringing together the technologies, expertise and people driving change across industry. But for visitors, the value extends well beyond the exhibition floor.

Taking place at a time when mining and engineering are responding to rapid technological, environmental and workforce transformation, Electra Mining Africa offers visitors the chance to see new technologies, speak directly to technical experts, watch equipment in action, explore practical solutions to industry challenges and learn from people working at the forefront of their sectors.

Discover, test and ask

With more than 1 000 exhibitors across 44 000 m² net exhibition space, visitors can explore thousands of products, technologies, machines and services across mining, manufacturing, automation, electrical, power, engineering and related industries.

The many live demonstrations will give visitors the chance to see machinery and technologies operating first-hand. Whether looking for a solution to a specific operational challenge, investigating new technology, comparing products or simply keeping up with developments in the sector, visitors can speak directly to the companies behind the solutions and get practical answers to their questions.

The exhibition will also feature new products, technology innovations, specialist expertise and show-specific activities, providing plenty of reasons for industry professionals to explore beyond their usual areas of interest.

Learn from industry experts

The free-to-attend Seminar Theatre, hosted by the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM), will provide another opportunity to learn directly from industry practitioners, technology specialists and professional organisations.

The programme follows Electra Mining Africa’s daily themes – Future Skills and Careers, Automation and Digitalisation, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency, Women in Mining and Engineering, and Local Manufacturing and Innovation – with sessions addressing issues and developments currently shaping the industry.

Visitors can build their show experience around the topics most relevant to them, gaining insights that complement what they see on the exhibition floor.

Also, Women in Mining SA (WiMSA) will host a half-day workshop bringing women from across the mining sector together to explore leadership, influence, innovation and industry transformation. The free workshop will provide opportunities to connect with peers, hear from industry leaders and explore practical approaches to career development. Booking is required as places are limited.

Compete, connect and experience

Electra Mining Africa will also offer opportunities to see industry skills put to the test.

Students will compete in the Geological Society of South Africa’s (GSSA) new ‘The Explorers’ Pitch’, presenting real-world mineral exploration concepts to a panel of experts. The competition challenges students from geoscience, mining, finance and related disciplines to combine scientific merit with commercial thinking, with R10,000 in prize money for the winning team, industry exposure and expert feedback on offer.

Meanwhile, Lifting Africa will host the Forklift Driver Competition throughout the exhibition. Visitors can watch licensed operators tackle timed practical challenges that test precision, efficiency, safety compliance and handling skills under conditions designed to reflect the real workplace.

These are just some of the features and activities visitors can discover at Electra Mining Africa, complementing the exhibition itself with opportunities to learn, connect, share knowledge and experience different aspects of the industry.

Skills Hub connects industry and education

New this year, the SAIMechE Skills and Career Hub (South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering) at Electra Mining Africa will give visitors an opportunity to engage directly with universities, higher education institutions and training providers on the skills needed for the future of mining and industry.

The initiative responds to growing industry need for closer alignment between workplace requirements and education and training outcomes. Discussions will explore future skills, education requirements, applied research, innovation and opportunities for collaboration. For industry, the Skills Hub provides a place to share insights, discuss skills challenges and explore potential partnerships.

More than an exhibition

Now in its 54th year, Electra Mining Africa is set to be its biggest and most comprehensive event yet, with an expanded footprint, more than 1 000 exhibitors, broader product categories and a new outdoor exhibition area.

For visitors, that means more to explore, more people to meet and more opportunities to discover solutions, gain knowledge and see where technology and skills are taking industry.

Electra Mining Africa takes place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, from 7-11 September 2026.

For more information and visitor registration, visit www.electramining.co.za