It has been 20 years since South Africa became a democracy, a country to be governed by the people for all of the people. Yet, it only seems like yesterday that Nelson Mandela, leading a nation full of hope, established the ‘Rainbow Nation’. A democracy graduating from its teenage years and heading for adulthood is reflecting on its successes, its challenges and the road ahead. Like a good driver, will we reflect on the path travelled to make sure we have learned from our successes and our failures? And will we continue on the journey that respects all people irrespective of colour, creed and background, giving everyone a sense of belonging and ownership that is the very foundation of the creation of this great democracy. The heroes of South Africa’s struggle came from all walks of life and reflect the essence of diversity that is embodied in the symbolism of ‘Our Rainbow’.

South Africans are prone to self-criticism, a reflection of the dreams that they hold dear and the expectation that this will be a country for all. The pathway from the tyranny of apartheid to democracy and the social reconstruction that is accompanying this change has been a marvel to the world. That this change has been achieved through constructive dialogue and openly negotiated accommodation is a tribute to the will and strength of good men and women.

For the mining industry, the past two decades have seen much change. Drastic improvements in safety, wages and living conditions have brought the industry into the modern era. While we acknowledge there is still much to be done, the establishment of South Africa back on the global mining stage has been a key in helping South Africa chart the building of a foundation for the future.

According to the Chamber of Mines, mining:

• accounts for about 19% of gross domestic product (GDP) (9% direct, the remainder indirect and induced);
• is a critical earner of foreign exchange at more than 50%;
• accounts for 20% of private investment (and 12% of total investment);
• in 2012 paid R20-billion in corporate taxes – 14,1% of total corporate taxes which is nearly double the sector’s share of GDP – and R5.6-billion in royalties; and
• employed 520 000 people directly and is indirectly responsible for another 830 000 jobs.

In the mining industry, we have a responsibility to deliver returns to our shareholders, to look after the safety and health of our workforce and reward them for delivering outcomes, and we must be a partner within the communities in which we work. The essence of building a sustainable industry and a development partner for the nation is to make sure we deliver on all three imperatives.

As we look towards the next 20 years, we are determined to play our part in the creation of a South Africa that takes its unique place in the world. South Africans must continue to come together and continue to build on the foundation that is taking it towards living the dream that is the ‘Rainbow Nation’.