Alternative Stories of Mining
Communities for Justice in the Energy Transition
What is AMI 2026?
Alternative Mining Indaba 2026 is a three-day, community-led gathering that challenges dominant mining narratives and centres the lived experiences of mining-affected communities across Africa.
When?
9–11 February 2026, during the week of the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town.
Where?
Cape Town, South Africa – with plenary sessions, an exhibition at St George's Cathedral, and a public march to the Mining Indaba precinct.
What Do We Mean by "Alternative Stories of Mining"?
For more than a decade, the Alternative Mining Indaba has created a space where communities, faith-based organisations and civil society can challenge the way mining is framed in mainstream forums.
In 2026, AMI returns to its roots. "Alternative Stories of Mining" places community testimonies, creative expression and collective organising at the centre. Instead of a top-down conference, AMI 2026 will function as a workshop space – with stories, drama, exhibitions and visible actions that speak directly to investors, companies and state actors.
Three Days of Stories, Strategy and Action
Day 1
Monday 9 February
Opening plenary, solidarity space with community networks, key panels and collective discussions to frame the "Alternative Stories of Mining" and prepare for the exhibition.
Day 2
Tuesday 10 February
Exhibition day at St George's Cathedral with interactive sessions that put communities at the centre. Mining Indaba participants and the public are invited to encounter alternative narratives of mining.
Day 3
Wednesday 11 February
Morning discussion on the AMI communique, followed by a public march/picket and engagements aimed at the Mining Indaba and decision-makers.
Why the Alternative Mining Indaba Matters
Community-led
Built from village, district and national AMIs across Africa.
Justice-focused
Links mining, energy transition, climate justice and social protection.
Faith & values
Rooted in faith-based advocacy and ethical stewardship of natural resources.
Counter-narrative
Takes place alongside the Mining Indaba to challenge business-as-usual and amplify community voices.
Communities in Action
AMI brings together voices from across Africa to challenge extractive injustice and demand accountability
Voices of Justice
Communities speak out against mining injustices and demand their rights to land, water, and dignity
Taking Action
Delivering alternative narratives directly to decision-makers at the Mining Indaba