According to Mintek Chief Executive Officer Molefi Motuku, coal is among the minerals included in the list, as it is deemed crucial for the country's energy security.

Motuku shared this information while speaking at the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town.

"Coal is critical, strategic, essential, whatever type you're using, that's what the model says. With the list, we will look at our trading partners, and sustainability, so the attempt is to weigh these assessments or methodologies and rank them, but you can also focus on other commodities if you are there to export," Motuku said.

The Critical Minerals Strategy aims to identify and prioritise key minerals that are essential for the country's economic growth and energy needs. The final strategy will be published once it has been approved by the government, marking a significant step towards ensuring the sustainable and efficient utilisation of SA's mineral resources.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--