In 1921, Meitaro Takeuchi founded the Komatsu company in the town that shares its name. He did so to provide work for the local community after the closure of a nearby copper mine.

Today, Komatsu have come a long way from where it started. It has evolved into a truly global company with a diverse workforce comprised of different nationalities and beliefs. And it is by harnessing the potential of all its different talents and unique perspectives that it pushes itselves further.

Komatsu has a proud and enduring legacy in the mining industry, delivering trusted solutions to the mining sector for more than 100 years.

Through its renowned Joy brand, it has built a strong presence in the industrial minerals market, providing high‑quality equipment, purpose‑designed machines, and advanced technologies — all developed with Komatsu's unwavering commitment to the journey toward zero harm.

The company's vision is to operate as one integrated team within a collaborative, motivated, transparent and supportive environment. It is driven by a passion for servicing its customers with the highest levels of application expertise and technical knowledge, ensuring solutions that enhance performance, safety and productivity.

Today, Komatsu Mining is a truly global organisation, shaped by a diverse workforce representing many nationalities, cultures and beliefs. By harnessing the collective strength of its people, their talents and unique perspectives, Komatsu continues to evolve and push boundaries. It explores and advances technology through the development of smart equipment and innovative manufacturing solutions, creating meaningful value for communities around the world.

Guided by its purpose, it empowers a sustainable future where people, business and our planet can thrive together. By staying true to its brand promise — Creating value together — Komatsu Mining continues to build lasting partnerships and deliver solutions that move the mining industry forward.

Rudie Boshoff, Komatsu Underground Mining Senior Vice President spoke to Engineering News & Mining Weekly during the Electra Mining Africa event, held in Johannesburg from 7 to 11 September 2026.