Across the African continent, a growing trend is reshaping the mining industry: the rise of African expatriates. Professionals from mature mining hubs like Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Tanzania are being recruited to work in emerging mining economies such as Mozambique, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. This workforce shift is redefining how businesses tackle cost, skills gaps, and local operations in a highly competitive industry.

For decades, mining companies in Africa relied heavily on expatriates from countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK. While these professionals brought world-class expertise, they came with steep costs. Today, companies are increasingly turning to African expats—professionals from within the continent who offer a blend of technical know-how, cultural familiarity, and cost-effectiveness. Interestingly, South African professionals, despite their proximity, are becoming less of a focus. Their compensation packages, reflective of South Africa’s developed mining industry, mirror those of Western expatriates, making recruitment from other mature African mining hubs more cost-effective.

The Rise of African Expats

Countries like Zambia, the DRC, and Tanzania have long-established mining industries and serve as rich training grounds for skilled professionals. These mining professionals bring not just technical proficiency but also an understanding of the operational, environmental, and socio-political challenges unique to Africa.

Unlike expatriates from developed nations, African expats require fewer cultural and logistical adjustments. Their experience navigating similar environments makes them adept at managing challenges in emerging markets. Furthermore, their cost structures are far more affordable than both Western and South African expatriates, making them an attractive choice for companies looking to optimise budgets without compromising on top skills.

Poaching from Africa’s Mining Heartlands

The recruitment of mining professionals from Zambia, the DRC, and Tanzania has become increasingly competitive. These countries boast a deep pool of skilled engineers, geologists, and managers trained in high-performance mining environments.

As a result, they are highly sought after for assignments in less developed mining economies. Countries where mining industries are still in the early stages of development rely on this expertise to build and scale their operations effectively.

South Africa: A Unique Case

While South Africa is a leading mining hub, its expatriates often come with costs comparable to those from developed nations, making them less attractive to cost-conscious employers. Recruitment efforts instead focus on professionals from other African nations with mature mining industries, like Tanzania, where the cost-to-value ratio is more favourable.

“South African professionals have an unmatched skill set,” notes a regional recruiter. “But their compensation packages often align with Western standards, which can be prohibitive for mining projects in emerging economies.”

The Retention Dilemma

While companies aim to retain their top talent, the lure of higher-paying roles elsewhere in Africa often proves irresistible. Many mining professionals from Zambia, Tanzania, and the DRC are being offered contracts in US Dollars, making their local salaries pale in comparison. For example, a Tanzanian mining engineer might find themselves earning two to three times their local wage by relocating to countries where dollar-based expatriate compensation packages are standard.

The disparity is particularly pronounced in regions where currency instability and inflation erode local earnings. An attractive dollar-based salary offers financial stability and enables expats to remit significant savings to their home countries, further boosting its appeal.

“Dollar-based contracts are a game-changer,” says an HR Manager in the mining sector. “No matter how competitive a local salary might seem, it can’t compete with the stability and purchasing power of being paid in a global currency.”

This trend has created a retention challenge for employers in mature mining hubs, where mining professionals are leaving for better-paying roles abroad. It also intensifies competition among employers, who must navigate limited budgets while trying to match or at least close the gap with international offers.

The Skills Transfer Effect

One of the greatest benefits of hiring African expatriates is their role in facilitating skills transfer. When equipped to do so, they can train local workers, helping them develop the technical and managerial skills necessary to operate independently in the long term.

In countries with developing mining sectors, this transfer of knowledge is a critical step toward building a sustainable, skilled workforce. Beyond technical training, African expats bring insights into best practices for safety, environmental management, and community relations, elevating local standards and fostering a culture of excellence.

The Road Ahead

The shift toward African expatriates signals a broader transformation in the continent’s mining sector. Companies are moving away from reliance on costly Western expatriates and turning to homegrown talent. However, the challenge of retaining these professionals amid the allure of dollar-based contracts underscores the need for innovative compensation strategies.

Employers must rethink their retention approaches, considering not just salary but also career growth opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and non-monetary benefits that could make local contracts more appealing. At the same time, they must invest in training local talent to reduce dependency on expatriates over the long term.

For African expats, the opportunities are vast. They are more than just skilled workers—they are vital agents of change, driving growth, collaboration, and knowledge transfer across the continent’s mining sector. As companies adapt to the changing dynamics of talent retention, the role of African expatriates in shaping the future of Africa’s mining industry remains undisputed.
[Submitted by Sean Harvey]

I recently attended the 2024 South African Rewards Association (SARA) Conference in Johannesburg, which had the theme "Breaking Boundaries." This theme resonated throughout the event as reward specialists, thought leaders and industry experts gathered to explore the evolving role of rewards in shaping the future of organisations.

Key Highlights from the Program
The conference opened with Michael Jackson's powerful keynote, "Activating Fresh Thinking. " In it, Jackson emphasised the necessity of innovation in addressing contemporary challenges. This set the tone for discussions on pivotal topics, including Annabel Bishop's presentation on the economic outlook and Dianne Auld and Jonathan Goldberg's discussion of the practical implications of pay transparency and equity.
The panel discussion on the new Companies Act Bill requirements was particularly impactful. Experts delved into the operational challenges and opportunities created by these legislative changes. Another highlight was from the session by Dr Scott Cawood, CEO of WorldatWork, on the need for "Radical Rewards," challenging traditional systems that often fail to incentivise disruptors and innovators—critical players in a fast-changing world.

Adapting to Change: Key Themes
The conference spotlighted several emerging trends, such as integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals into executive remuneration. This shift aligns with global priorities, urging organisations to align leadership incentives with broader societal impacts. The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on rewards and remuneration painted a compelling picture of how AI is reshaping decision-making in pay structures and performance evaluation.

The Call to Action for Reward Specialists
Dr. Cawood and Dr. Mark Bussin’s assertion that reward systems must evolve to recognise and reward disruptors echoed a recurring theme throughout the conference. This call to action emphasised the need for flexibility in reward strategies to attract and retain top talent amidst global and local economic pressures.

Reflections
The 2024 SARA Conference was a testament to the dynamic nature of the rewards profession. It inspired and called practitioners to embrace change, rethink traditional practices, and foster workplaces that celebrate innovation, equity, and resilience.

[Submitted by Sean Harvey]

In the United States, no government agency or official body certifies journalists or declares an entity as "press." This lack of regulation is by design, as the First Amendment ensures the freedom of the press and prohibits government interference in defining or controlling who can practice journalism. While this openness is a vital aspect of democracy, it can sometimes leave freelancers and independent media professionals seeking ways to establish their legitimacy in the field.

That’s where the US Press Association (USPA) comes in. With years of experience and a respected reputation in the media industry, the USPA serves as a trusted source for journalists, photographers, bloggers, and other media professionals to obtain recognized press credentials. These credentials can enhance your professional profile, provide legitimacy, and help you gain access to events, venues, and opportunities that might otherwise be difficult to secure.

Whether you're just starting in media or already established, the US Press Association offers a pathway to connect with a reputable organization that supports and validates your role as a media professional. From personalized press passes to membership benefits that include credential assistance and promotional tools, the USPA equips members with the resources needed to succeed in today’s dynamic media landscape.

Joining the US Press Association is not only a step toward professional growth—it’s a commitment to being part of a network that values and promotes the vital role of independent and freelance journalism.

The Proteas Women’s Test match against England at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein will be remembered as a bittersweet chapter in South African cricket history. While the match marked South Africa’s first home Test in over two decades, the Proteas fell to a crushing 286-run defeat against a resurgent England side, who claimed their first Test victory in a decade.

Set an imposing target of 351, South Africa were dismissed for just 64 in their second innings – the lowest score in their Test history – with England’s Lauren Bell taking 4/27 to seal the win on Day 3. England’s comprehensive performance, led by skipper Heather Knight and Bell, showcased the value of a structured approach to Test cricket, a lesson the Proteas can take forward as they seek to improve in the longest format.

Bright Moments Amid a Tough Loss
Despite the heavy defeat, there were positives for the Proteas. Spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba delivered a standout performance, becoming the first South African woman to take 10 wickets in a Test match. Her remarkable 10/157 across both innings highlighted her growing stature in international cricket.

New head coach Mandla Mashimbyi praised Mlaba’s efforts:
“Mlaba’s 10-for was phenomenal. She got better and better as the game progressed. It’s unfortunate to bowl like that and not get the win, but performances like hers show we’re heading in the right direction.”

Proteas skipper Laura Wolvaardt echoed similar sentiments, calling for more Test opportunities to hone their skills:
“There’s only so much you can do in the nets. We need more matches to improve in this format.”

England’s Clinical Display
England’s commanding performance was anchored by Heather Knight, who fell just 10 runs short of a century in the second innings, and Lauren Bell, who claimed match figures of 8/76. Knight reflected on the significance of the win:
“First Test win in a decade is pretty special. I’ve loved the graft over the last three days and the style in which we finished the game.”

The match also highlighted the challenges women’s cricket faces, with Knight expressing frustration over the absence of DRS:
“In Test cricket, where wickets are at such a premium, it’s really important to have it. The lack of DRS was a disappointment.”

The Need for More Test Cricket
The Proteas Women have played just four Tests since 2016, highlighting the rarity of opportunities in the format. While 2024 saw them play three Tests, there are no fixtures scheduled for 2025, a reality Mashimbyi described as a major obstacle:
“We need more red-ball cricket. It’s part of my responsibility to prepare the team by incorporating two-day matches into camps, but structural changes are needed to give us regular exposure.”

Wolvaardt emphasized the importance of these opportunities:
“We played good cricket in parts of this match, but lapses in crucial moments cost us. Learning to navigate those comes with experience, which we can only gain by playing more Tests.”

Looking Ahead
The Bloemfontein Test, which carried historical significance as the 150th women’s Test, highlighted both the promise and the challenges of women’s cricket in South Africa. While England’s dominance underscored their familiarity with the format, the Proteas showed glimpses of their potential.

For South Africa, the focus now shifts to advocating for more Test matches to bridge the gap in experience and performance. As Mashimbyi noted, the lessons learned in Bloemfontein will serve as a foundation for future success:
“There’s a lot to build on. With consistent opportunities, we can compete and excel in this format.”

For now, the Proteas Women must take pride in their strides forward, even as they navigate the growing pains of a team finding its feet in the red-ball arena.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Johannesburg, 18 December 2024 – Red-ball head coach Shukri Conrad has unveiled a 16-player squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, set to begin at SuperSport Park on Thursday, 26 December.

Momentum Multiply Titans seamer Corbin Bosch has earned his maiden call-up to the national Test side. The 30-year-old has been in exceptional form in first-class cricket, with 72 wickets at an average of 36.75 and an economy rate of 3.24 from 34 matches. He also boasts a batting average over 40, demonstrating his value as an all-rounder. Bosch was recently part of the SA Invitational XI, which triumphed over the England Lions in Cape Town.

Joining Bosch is uncapped seamer Kwena Maphaka from the DP World Lions, who was previously included in the squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka. DP World Lions all-rounder Wiaan Mulder also makes the squad as he nears full recovery from a fractured right middle finger that kept him out of the second Test against Sri Lanka. If Mulder is selected for the first Test, Dafabet Warriors batter Matthew Breetzke will be released from the squad.

Injury concerns surround Keshav Maharaj, who sustained an acute groin strain during warm-ups ahead of the first One-Day International against Pakistan in Paarl on Tuesday. Maharaj is set to undergo a scan on Wednesday to assess the severity of the injury.

Test captain Temba Bavuma will lead the team in what will be the final Test series of the summer and the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship cycle, with South Africa currently sitting at the top of the standings.

Commenting on the squad, Shukri Conrad emphasized the significance of the series: “We head into this series with a clear focus, with a spot in the World Test Championship Final being the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. We’ve selected a squad which gives us the best chance to achieve that.”

Conrad added: “Pakistan has always posed a strong threat with their talented fast bowlers, and I expect it to be no different this time around. We are also excited to see Corbin Bosch step up to Test cricket, with his all-round ability and pace adding depth to our attack. Dane Paterson impressed against Sri Lanka, and we’re looking forward to seeing more from him. The pace attack is looking strong, and we are closely monitoring Keshav’s injury.”

The squad will be eager to capitalize on the momentum from their recent series against Sri Lanka, with the batters stepping up when required. The challenge against Pakistan, renowned for their formidable bowling attack, will be a test of their readiness for the World Test Championship Final.

Proteas Test Squad for Pakistan Series:

Temba Bavuma (captain, DP World Lions)
David Bedingham (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Corbin Bosch (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Matthew Breetzke (Dafabet Warriors)
Tony de Zorzi (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Marco Jansen (Renault North West Dragons)
Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
Kwena Maphaka (DP World Lions)
Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Wiaan Mulder (DP World Lions)
Senuran Muthusamy (Dafabet Warriors)
Dane Paterson (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Kagiso Rabada (DP World Lions)
Ryan Rickelton (DP World Lions)
Tristan Stubbs (Dafabet Warriors)
Kyle Verreynne (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Test Series Fixtures:

26 - 30 December at 10:00 – South Africa vs Pakistan, SuperSport Park, Centurion
03 - 07 January at 10:00 – South Africa vs Pakistan, World Sports Betting Newlands Cricket Stadium, Cape Town
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

In South Africa, a dynamic shift is unfolding in the realms of sports and arts, driven by the charismatic and controversial Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie. Since taking office in July 2024, McKenzie has introduced transformative policies and a bold vision that seeks to uplift neglected sectors, particularly in underprivileged communities. His impact, often referred to as the “Gayton Effect,” is reshaping how South Africans view and engage with sport and culture.

McKenzie’s journey is a story of redemption and determination. Hailing from Bloemfontein, he was once a promising athlete, but life led him down a tumultuous path of crime and incarceration. Instead of being defined by his past, McKenzie has used it as a platform to inspire transformation, especially among South African youth. His message is clear: if he could turn his life around, so can others.

Among McKenzie’s groundbreaking initiatives is his drive to formalize and professionalize car spinning, a motorsport deeply rooted in South African township culture. Seen by many as a pastime confined to street corners, McKenzie envisions car spinning as a regulated national sport, complete with sponsorships, leagues, and international recognition. This effort not only celebrates South African culture but also channels raw talent into meaningful opportunities for youth, steering them away from negative influences.

McKenzie has also championed a revival of school sports, advocating for physical education to return as a standalone subject. His proposed "new delivery model" aims to align government programs, sports federations, and private schools, creating a more inclusive platform for talent identification and development. By focusing on school-based initiatives, McKenzie hopes to make sports a powerful tool for crime prevention, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

The arts sector has not been left behind in McKenzie’s reform agenda. He has pledged to discover and nurture new stars, drawing inspiration from the global successes of South African artists like Tyla and Makhadzi. His insistence on transforming the ministry from a “Ministry of Congratulations” into a driver of meaningful change is evident in his push for greater accountability in arts funding. By publishing beneficiary lists and ensuring equitable resource allocation, McKenzie is setting a new standard for transparency.

McKenzie’s tenure has not been without criticism. His decision to cut funding for “super fans”—iconic figures who support South African sports teams at international events—sparked backlash. While redirecting these funds to athletes and artists has been welcomed by some, others lament the potential loss of these cultural ambassadors.

Operational challenges have also marred his leadership. Events like the U18 African Basketball Championships have drawn criticism for last-minute planning and organizational inefficiencies. These setbacks have raised concerns about the department's ability to execute McKenzie’s ambitious vision effectively.

McKenzie’s leadership style is a blend of bold decision-making and unorthodox methods, drawing both admiration and skepticism. His commitment to grassroots sports and arts development has resonated with many South Africans, especially those from marginalized communities. However, his controversial past and some divisive policies have left others questioning whether his approach will achieve lasting success.

The “Gayton Effect” represents more than policy shifts—it symbolizes a cultural awakening. By celebrating indigenous sports, revitalizing school programs, and championing the arts, McKenzie has sparked hope for a more inclusive and vibrant South African sporting and cultural landscape.

As the nation watches, Gayton McKenzie’s legacy will likely be defined not only by the initiatives he launches but by the lives he transforms. Whether his tenure brings sustained change or fleeting headlines, one thing is certain: McKenzie’s impact will not soon be forgotten.

South Africa now stands at the crossroads of potential and realization, with McKenzie’s unconventional leadership offering a daring path forward.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

In a compelling finale to the ICC Women’s Championship One-Day International (ODI) series, England clinched a decisive six-wicket victory over South Africa at JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Wednesday, securing a 2-1 series win.

Opener Tammy Beaumont led England's chase with an unbeaten 65, replete with 10 fours in just 46 balls. She was ably supported by Amy Jones, who scored an unbeaten 49 off 36 balls, as they together fashioned a match-winning 90-run partnership. England chased down a revised target of 152 in 23 overs after rain and lightning had intervened, reducing the match's length.

The Proteas had earlier posted 233/8 in their 50 overs, with captain Laura Wolvaardt anchoring the innings with a well-composed 61 off 68 deliveries, including nine boundaries. South Africa started positively with an opening stand of 50 between Wolvaardt and Lara Goodall (17), before Lauren Bell (1/46) broke through.

After Goodall's departure, Anneke Bosch (19) partnered with Wolvaardt to push the score to 95/1 at the 20-over mark. However, England's bowlers, Alice Capsey (2/59) and Sophie Ecclestone (2/26), made inroads, with Wolvaardt and Bosch falling in quick succession, reducing South Africa to 107/3.

The middle order provided some resistance, with Nadine de Klerk (14) and Annerie Dercksen (13) contributing, but England's bowling attack kept the pressure on. Marizanne Kapp (38) and Chloé Tryon (20) managed a 42-run partnership for the sixth wicket, but their dismissals by Ecclestone and Capsey respectively further tilted the game. A late flourish from Mieke de Ridder (19*) and Nonkululeko Mlaba (16*) helped South Africa reach 233/8.

England's reply started disastrously, with Marizanne Kapp (3/24) making early inroads, dismissing Maia Bouchier (4), Nat Sciver-Brunt (0), and Heather Knight (6) to leave England at a precarious 25/3. However, Beaumont and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (22) steadied the ship with a 38-run partnership before Beaumont and Jones took command, ensuring England's victory.

Charlie Dean was adjudged Player of the Series for her remarkable bowling, capturing seven wickets, with a highlight of four for 45 in one of the matches.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Under the dazzling Centurion lights, South Africa's Proteas delivered a scintillating performance on Friday night, sealing a 7-wicket triumph over Pakistan to clinch the T20 series with a game to spare. It was a night for the ages—a tale of redemption, resilience, and riveting cricket.

At the heart of the spectacle was Reeza Hendricks, who silenced critics and etched his name in the record books with a masterful maiden T20I century. His knock, a blistering 117 off 63 deliveries, was a symphony of power and precision that left fans at SuperSport Park roaring with delight.

Hendricks’ innings had everything—class, grit, and a touch of the poetic. After a forgettable World Cup campaign, the opener rose like a phoenix, dispatching 10 sixes and 7 fours in a boundary-laden display. One shot stood out: a majestic lofted drive over wide long-on off Abbas Afridi, oozing confidence and style. The celebration that followed his century was a moment of catharsis, shared by an elated crowd chanting his name.

Ably partnering Hendricks was the ever-reliable Rassie van der Dussen. Together, they stitched a 157-run stand that turned a daunting chase of 207 into a masterclass in composure. Van der Dussen’s unbeaten 66 was the perfect foil, his steady hand ensuring Pakistan’s bowlers never regained control.

Earlier, Pakistan had posted an imposing 206/5, thanks largely to a sensational knock from young Saim Ayub. The stylish left-hander dazzled with his 98 not out, featuring pristine cover drives and explosive power hitting. Despite Ayub’s heroics, Pakistan’s middle order faltered, and their death-over bowling left much to be desired.

While Pakistan seemed in command at the halfway mark, Hendricks and van der Dussen had other plans. South Africa chased the target with three balls to spare, delivering a statement about their strength in T20 cricket.

Captain Heinrich Klaasen lauded his team’s adaptability and Hendricks’ brilliance. "Reeza was outstanding—so easy on the eye when he’s in form. Couldn’t happen to a better guy," Klaasen remarked. He also acknowledged the challenges of bowling under dew and praised the team’s execution of the chase.

Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan conceded his side’s shortcomings but remained optimistic. "Hendricks played a special innings, and Saim Ayub was exceptional. We’re learning, and I’m confident we’ll bounce back," Rizwan said.

Hendricks, named Player of the Match, reflected on his performance with humility. "It’s been a while since I reached three figures, so this one’s special. It feels good to contribute meaningfully to the team," he said.

As the series moves to its finale, the Proteas will aim for a clean sweep, while Pakistan will hope to salvage pride. Friday’s clash was more than a cricket match—it was a reminder of sport’s ability to inspire, uplift, and ignite passion. Hendricks’ redemption tale will long be remembered as one of T20 cricket’s finest narratives.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

GQEBERHA, South Africa (AP) — South Africa clinched a series sweep over Sri Lanka with a decisive 109-run victory in the second Test at St George's Park, concluding on Monday. The Proteas had the upper hand from the outset, needing only five wickets to secure the win while Sri Lanka faced the daunting task of scoring 143 more runs to reach a target of 348.

The final day saw South Africa dismantle Sri Lanka's batting line-up, ending any hopes of a comeback by dismissing captain Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis early in the morning session. This exposed Sri Lanka's lower order, which crumbled under pressure, leading to a swift conclusion before lunch with Sri Lanka all out for 238. Spinner Keshav Maharaj was instrumental in this victory, claiming three of the final five wickets to round off his 11th career five-wicket haul with figures of 5-76.

This win not only sealed the series 2-0 but also propelled South Africa to the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. With two more home Tests against Pakistan on the horizon, starting December 26, the Proteas are now in a prime position to qualify for their first WTC final. Captain Temba Bavuma expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "WTC table looks good. Want to continue what we're doing, enjoy the victory, and in a couple of weeks’ time start speaking about Pakistan."

The match was a testament to both teams' resilience, with the game swinging back and forth over the five days. Despite Sri Lanka's spirited fightback, particularly through Prabath Jayasuriya's five-for on Sunday, South Africa's bowlers, led by Maharaj, were relentless. The Sri Lankan innings, despite a solid start, fell apart rapidly after the morning's key dismissals.

Bavuma highlighted the challenging nature of the match, saying, "This test for a lot of the guys was a proper test. Rare that you get to play all five days, rare the game swings both sides. Credit to Sri Lanka for the way they went about their business, asked the right questions, they made us work hard for the win."

Score Summary:

South Africa: 358 and 317 (Bavuma 66, Markram 55; Jayasuriya 5-129)
Sri Lanka: 328 and 238 (Dhananjaya de Silva 50; Maharaj 5-76)

This series victory underscores South Africa's dominance at home and sets a positive tone as they eye further success in the WTC, with the next challenge against Pakistan looming large.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]