Siyakhula Sonke Empowerment Corporation (SSC Group)
Primary ticker: PRIVATE
Stage of development: Development, Production
Primary minerals: Gold and PGM
Project to promote: Operational opencast Gold Mine and near production shallow PGM mine
Project location: South Africa
Website: www.sscgroup.co.za
SSC was founded in 2005 by Fred Arendse with a vision to create and build a diversified operating minerals and investment group. The SSC Group has in the last 20 years matured into a group of companies operating and investing in businesses across the mining value chain providing underground mining services, exploration drilling, mine rehabilitation, dump reclamation, advisory services, back-fill engineering, renewable energy solutions, human capital solutions and enterprise development.
SSC is a level 1 Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (“B-BBEE”) contributor in terms of South African legislation and a requirement for investment in mining in South Africa. With extensive technical, operational, and financial expertise, and strong relationships with mining unions, government departments, and local communities, the SSC Group is well-positioned to co-own in and operate mining operations.
The name “Siyakhula Sonke” comes from the Zulu phrase “together we grow” reflecting the SSC Group’s vision of building a global, diversified, operating, minerals and investment group.
Management Profile
Fred Arendse, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of SSC Group
Fred, a distinguished mining entrepreneur and the former Head of Transformation at Anglo-American Platinum, has significantly influenced the mining sector through his innovative leadership, driving SSC Group to become a global powerhouse known for sustainable practices. With nearly three decades of experience as a pioneer in mining, Fred has a proven track record of fostering inclusive growth. As President of the Junior Mining Council, he advocates for the growth of emerging mining companies in South Africa. His board memberships and industry influence have promoted sustainable and ethical mining practices. Recognized by President Ramaphosa for his contributions to development initiatives, particularly in education, Fred’s legacy is one of visionary leadership, transformative impact, and relentless pursuit of progress, making him a pivotal figure in driving SSC Group’s future and potential investment growth.
Martin Schemers, Chief Financial Officer of SSC Group
With over 40 years of diverse experience, Martin boasts a distinguished financial and operational background. He is well-versed in all aspects of finance including governance, internal controls, financial reporting, IFRS, compliance, and risk management. He has over the years been involved in the corporate and operational affairs of several companies and was a director for one of the largest mining contract companies in South Africa and managed the South African operations for a listed Canadian gold mining group. He has served on JSE-listed company boards and continues to hold directorships in several private companies. Martin holds a B.Compt degree and is an AGA (SA).
What is your rationale for taking part in 121 Mining Investment?
The SSC Group is committed to identifying and collaborating with investment partners who recognize the vast opportunities within Southern Africa’s diversified minerals, renewable energy, and emerging markets. Our participation in 121 Mining Investment aligns with our strategic vision of establishing a global, diversified minerals and investment group.
We are dedicated to forming strategic partnerships and securing key investors to help unlock the immense potential of South Africa’s mineral sector. Our track record of successful partnerships and joint ventures demonstrates our ability to deliver sustainable returns on investments.
SSC’s extensive experience in the mining sector has fostered long-term relationships with key industry players, unions, and policymakers. This unique position allows us to not only understand industry challenges but also provide viable solutions and support, ensuring mutual growth and success.
SSC has several Gold and PGM mining investment opportunities in South Africa and requires funders to co-invest in these opportunities. The funding required amounts to $60 million for an operating Gold Project and $250 million for a near production PGM Project and SSC will consider investors that can invest a minimum of $10 million in the form of equity, loans and/or streaming. Detailed Investment Memorandum are available for each Project.
What recent news would you like to highlight to investors attending?
1. The PGM Project has a LOM of 18 years with a maximum mining depth of 750m and provides investors an opportunity to invest in a low-cost, low risk PGM Project that has a proven opencast track record with infrastructure to sustain the planned underground production.
2. The Gold Project is a producing low-cost opencast operation with a 2.1moz resource, producing 45 000 oz per annum with an 8 LOM with an opportunity to increase to over 20 years with significant positive cashflows.
What are your key goals for the next 3, 6 and 12 months?
3 Months:
To secure credible investors for both projects and close the opportunities
6 Months:
Finalize all agreements and commence regulatory approvals
12 Months:
Close both transactions and take over production of the Gold Project and commence development of PGM Project
What do you see as the key risks and challenges facing your company at the moment and how are you overcoming these?
SSC requires funding to convert the Gold and PGM Projects and the risks are that these opportunities will be taken up by other investors, so time is of the essence.
What do you think makes your company such a compelling investment?
SSC has a 20-year-old history in the South African mining industry with a qualified and experienced team to convert any mining opportunity into a profitable operation with positive cashflows and returns.
What are the top 3 key investor takeaways?
1. Both Projects are compelling investment opportunities
2. The Gold Project is a shorter-term investment with short-term positive cashflow returns
3. The PGM Project is a long-term investment with investors that are bullish on the PGM market with longer term returns.