There can be no doubt that mining, executed responsibly, is a significant force for sustainable growth. But to succeed in achieving this growth, long-term relationships of trust and mutual respect must be established between its key stakeholders.

A mining operation should provide socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders. Employees and local communities stand to gain jobs, local procurement and community projects. National and regional governments receive royalties, taxes and investment. Yet if one group withdraws their support for the operation, this will negatively impact all stakeholders.

Each contributes to the realization of the project and each looks to achieve a ‘fair’ return.