The Mining Indaba remains one of the most significant gatherings for the global mining industry, bringing together thousands of industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators. This year, adumo Payouts CEO Steve Mallaby attended the event for the first time, gaining first-hand insights into the evolving landscape of mining and how financial technology solutions can support industry transformation.
Reflecting on the event, Mallaby noted the strong emphasis on technology and innovation, particularly in areas like automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainable mining practices. However, while technology is shaping the future of mining, there remains a critical human element that cannot be overlooked.
“One of the key themes at the Indaba was the balance between automation and human capital,” said Mallaby. “Despite rapid advancements in mining technology, people remain at the heart of the industry. The challenge is integrating new solutions without displacing workers or creating resistance to change.”
As the mining industry modernises, financial solutions like adumo Payouts’ card-based incentive systems can play a crucial role in supporting workers, streamlining payroll, and enhancing financial inclusion.
“The well-being and empowerment of mining workers were major discussion points,” explains Mallaby. “Mining companies are making strides in gender balance and workforce sustainability, and digital financial tools can support these efforts by ensuring timely, secure, and transparent payments.”
Mallaby highlights that adumo Payouts’ solutions provide an innovative way for mining companies to reward employees, distribute incentives and bonuses, and manage payments more efficiently. Cash is becoming increasingly risky and inefficient, while digital payment solutions offer a safer and more scalable alternative.
One of the most compelling discussions at the Indaba revolved around the barriers to technological adoption. A thought-provoking session titled ‘Are People the Biggest Technology Progress Block?’ explored the common reasons for resistance to change and how companies can effectively introduce innovation.
“There is a real concern about job displacement due to automation,” notes Mallaby. “But what is often overlooked is how technology can be used to improve financial security and enhance workforce well-being. For example, our digital payment solutions providing faster access to incentives.”
He adds: “The outlook on commodities directly impacts the mining companies we work with which, in turn, affects financial well-being of employees. A secure and efficient incentive payout system ensures that workers benefit from industry growth while also reducing administrative overheads for employers.”
As mining companies navigate modernisation, adumo Payouts is positioned to help bridge the gap between technological advancement and workforce engagement. By adopting modern, relevant, and innovative incentive payouts, mining companies can foster financial inclusion, improve employee benefits and contribute to a safer and future-proofed industry.
“The takeaway from the Mining Indaba is clear,” concludes Mallaby. “Technology will continue to evolve, but its success depends on how well we integrate it with human capital. At adumo Payouts, we are committed to supporting this balance through innovative financial solutions that benefit both companies and their people.”
