MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
The Africa DownUnder mining conference commenced in Perth today.
Africa DownUnder is one of the foremost international mining industry events focused on Africa. The participation of nearly 1000 delegates reflects industry's strong confidence in the future of Africa's mining
sector.
The attendance of several African Mining Ministers and senior officials at the conference provides an
excellent opportunity to strengthen commercial links in the sector. Five of the six Australian High Commissioners and Ambassadors based in Africa are also taking part in the activities this week.
Australian companies have an estimated $20 billion worth of current and prospective investments in Africa and are active in nearly 30 countries across the continent.
They have earned a reputation for integrity and good practice in mine safety and environmental responsibility, and for developing the skills of local workforces.
The Australian Government is committed to broadening and deepening its engagement with Africa with the Government strengthening support for Australian business on the ground in Africa. Austrade has opened offices in Ghana and Kenya to cover West and East Africa respectively, with a strong focus on mining.
The Australian Government believes it can assist Africa in its long term development in areas where our expertise and experience could make a unique and positive contribution.
Australia's aid program to Africa will increase by 40 per cent to $164 million in 2009-10.
The Government's priorities are to support Africa's efforts to promote economic growth and prosperity through investment and trade; to accelerate progress towards the Millennium Development Goals; and to
address peace and security challenges.
As part of Australia's expanded overseas development program to Africa, Australia is creating a new technical facility – the Australia-Africa Partnership Facility.
An important focus of this program will be providing technical assistance to help African countries tap into their mineral wealth. Building on Australian knowledge and expertise, the program will include access to technical assistance and training in the management of mining industries.
Australia will also provide 24 new mining industry fellowships in 2010 to help African governments develop their mining industries. This is an increase from 5 fellowships in 2008 and also expands the coverage of the program from five to15 countries across Africa.
Natural resource management will be one of the priority sectors covered by Australia's scholarship program in Africa, which will provide up to 1,000 scholarships and fellowships Africa-wide by 2012-13.