JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – On May 13, 2025, the African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, through its “PtX Pathways” project, co-hosted a workshop titled “Powering Up Progress: Mining’s Green Revolution” at the Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika.

The event also served to validate an ongoing AFAP study, commissioned by GIZ, on the potential for green ammonia and e-fertilizer production in South Africa. The workshop aimed to share initial findings on green ammonia’s applications, particularly in fertilizers, and to facilitate discussion on its adoption within South Africa’s mining, agriculture, and chemical sectors. A key focus was how the mining industry can transition to sustainable, green production processes. The event involved diverse stakeholders, including representatives from target industries, academia, policymakers, and researchers.

The agenda included presentations and interactive sessions. Killian Banda, Director of Market Development from AFAP presented on green ammonia and fertilizer potential in Africa, while AFAP’s consultant, Thabo Gcwabaza discussed green hydrogen and ammonia applications and sustainability impacts in the mining sector. Viaksha Mohabir of GIZ offered insights into a study on mining Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) vital for the green hydrogen economy. These presentations noted that about 80% of traditional ammonia is used for agricultural fertilizer, highlighting the importance of shifting to green ammonia.

Further discussions centered on decarbonization opportunities in mining through renewable energy and green fuels like hydrogen, and green ammonia’s role in agriculture and as an energy carrier. Key challenges identified included higher costs, the need for strong public sector support and enabling policies, infrastructure development, and the importance of social engagement and workforce reskilling. The mining sector’s dual capacity as a potential green ammonia user and a critical raw material supplier was also a significant talking point.

The workshop concluded by outlining next steps for stakeholders. These include detailed cost analyses and policy development by AFAP, the creation of supportive environments and educational integration by the government, and the exploration of green ammonia implementation and skills development by mining companies.