CAPE TOWN – LiuGong, a global titan in construction and mining machinery, is set to challenge industry norms at the upcoming Investing in African Mining Indaba, asserting that “green is the new yellow.” The multinational is intensifying its pivot toward an eco-friendly, zero-emission “Green Machine” lineup, a strategic move aimed at reconciling the continent’s aggressive production targets with escalating global environmental mandates.
The company will return to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 9 to 12 February, following a significant showing in 2025. This year’s exhibition centers on the theme “Stronger together: Progress through partnerships,” a call to action for governments and private innovators to collaborate on decarbonizing Africa’s mineral extraction value chain. A centerpiece of their showcase is the LiuGong 856HE, a flagship electric wheel loader that serves as a proof of concept for high-capacity, battery-powered mining operations.
Industrial experts note that the transition to electric fleets is no longer a peripheral concern but a core business imperative. “LiuGong will place even greater focus on protecting the planet, without compromising production,” the company stated in a recent media briefing, emphasizing that their latest advancements are designed to withstand the rigorous demands of Africa’s mining elite while eliminating site emissions.
The corporate agenda features two high-profile sessions led by advisors from DRA Global, reflecting the deepening ties between equipment manufacturers and engineering consultancies. On Monday, 9 February, Ian Gebbie, Senior Vice President at DRA Global, will join a panel on the Nubian Pyramids Stage to address whether mines can realistically scale production while achieving zero-waste and zero-emission status. Gebbie, whose 33-year career spans the gold mining and energy sectors, has been a vocal proponent of battery systems as they reach the power levels required for heavy-duty mine loads.
The strategic dialogue continues on Tuesday, 10 February, with a keynote from DRA Global CEO James Smith. His address, “Partnering with China to accelerate mining tech in Africa,” is expected to detail how Sino-African collaboration can expedite the rollout of disruptive technologies. Smith’s 25-year tenure across the financial and industrial sectors provides a unique vantage point on the capital requirements and operational shifts needed to modernize the continent’s mines.
As the industry gathers in Cape Town, the pressure to deliver on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements remains a primary driver for investment. LiuGong’s presence at the Indaba aims to demonstrate that the technology for a sustainable mining future is already operational. Visitors to the LiuGong booth will have the opportunity to engage with technical teams on the total cost of ownership and the logistical benefits of shifting from traditional internal combustion to the next generation of “Green Machines.”
