Despite coal’s crucial role in modern life and its contribution to poverty alleviation, many remain unaware of these facts and lack an understanding of how biased policies that exclude coal can leave a nation more vulnerable or falling behind. Picture: Supplied
FutureCoal launched its Southern Africa Chapter on Thursday, with Seriti Resources CEO Mike Teke appointed as its inaugural chairman, marking a significant milestone for the coal industry in Southern Africa.
This initiative brings together four leading coal-rich nations: South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, which collectively possess an estimated 150 billion tons of coal reserves, cementing their status as major players in the global coal landscape.
The new Chapter aims to build on FutureCoal’s commitment to champion sustainable transformation across the entire coal value chain.
By uniting industry leaders, governments, and international partners, it seeks to establish consistent policies and strategies that promote the responsible and sustainable use of coal—an essential resource in sectors such as power generation, heavy industries, critical minerals, and hydrogen production.
“Launching the inaugural FutureCoal Chapter in Southern Africa is a testament to our unwavering commitment and leadership in uniting the value chain and reshaping coal’s future regionally and internationally,” Teke said.
Underpinned by FutureCoal’s Sustainable Coal Stewardship (SCS) roadmap, the Chapter already boasts 13 inaugural members from the Southern African region. The SCS roadmap focuses on innovation and technology, striving to modernise the coal value chain and achieve economic and environmental benefits that align with both national and global ambitions.
Despite coal’s crucial role in modern life and its contribution to poverty alleviation, many remain unaware of these facts and lack an understanding of how biased policies that exclude coal can leave a nation more vulnerable or falling behind.
Michelle Manook, CEO of FutureCoal, said the Chapter members were commendable for their proactive approach.
“FutureCoal’s SCS roadmap serves as the foundation to reverse this trend by facilitating responsible policy and investment decisions that support modernisation and transformation,” she said.
“Our shared goal is prosperity for all. This isn’t about choosing one path over another; it’s about empowering regions to chart their own course and fostering their responsible growth.”
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