Sibanye-Stillwater is exploring the possibilities of using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics for the safe extraction of mineral reserves at great depths, below 3000 meters, in the Wittersrand basin in South Africa.
The multinational group for mining and metal processing, headquartered in Westonaria, west of Johannesburg, believes that these technologies could be key to unlocking these ultra-deep resources.
According to CEO Richard Stuart, implementing autonomous systems at such extreme depths is the only way to guarantee the safety of operations. At a depth of 3000 meters, the surrounding rock temperature approaches 50 degrees Celsius, making human labor impossible. Combined with serious technical difficulties related to underground ventilation and reducing collapse risks, traditional human-operated mining is becoming completely unfeasible.
Richard Stuart told attendees at the Joburg Indaba conference that this is not just about mechanization, but about a rapidly changing process where robotics and AI make certain things possible. Although current research remains theoretical, Stuart noted that initial results are encouraging. He added that if the answers are positive, it will lead to a completely different discussion regarding the Witwatersrand basin.
The shift in the mining sector towards automation reflects a broader trend across the entire national economy. It may seem unexpected to those outside the industry, but up to 90% of businesses in South Africa now use digital tools in their supply chain networks. According to a Standard Chartered report on the future of trade in 2026, companies are actively applying these digital tools to mitigate ongoing supply chain disruptions. While the report emphasizes that the global trade environment remains complex, 59% of surveyed executives confirmed that digital transformation is a constant strategic priority.
Ultimately, the faster South African industries adopt digital tools—from supply chain management software to underground AI—the better local businesses will be prepared to scale operations and compete globally.