Standard Bank’s head for energy, infrastructure and mining Deerosh Maharaj has joined the advisory board of African Mining Week (AMW), a development the organisers say will strengthen the event’s 2026 agenda around project finance, deal structuring and investment partnerships across the continent.
AMW, billed as Africa’s most influential mining conference, will take place from 14-16 October in Cape Town under the theme Mining the Future: Unearthing Africa’s Full Mineral Value Chain.
The annual gathering brings together African project developers and global investors to accelerate capital flows into mining and energy, sectors seen as central to the continent’s industrialisation and energy transition.
AMW Event Director Rachelle Kasongo said Maharaj’s appointment reflects the conference’s strategy to draw on senior industry expertise to shape discussions and drive practical outcomes.
“Maharaj brings a wealth of experience in deal structuring, sustainable growth and investment facilitation,” Kasongo said.
“His guidance will be crucial in aligning AMW 2026’s agenda with the real needs of the industry and in fostering partnerships that drive mining and energy sector development across Africa.”
Maharaj, who has spent more than 12 years at Standard Bank, oversees financial solutions for mining, energy and infrastructure clients, including lending, working‑capital support, foreign exchange risk management, sustainability advisory and cross‑border trade facilitation.
His portfolio includes major transactions such as the bank’s role as co‑mandated lead arranger on a $130 million financing package for Tharisa Minerals in South Africa and a $150 million facility supporting Rosh Pinah Zinc’s RP2.0 expansion in Namibia.
Standard Bank is also backing several renewable‑energy projects powering mining operations, including the 475 MW Notsi Solar PV facility.
AMW organisers say Maharaj’s expertise will be pivotal as demand for financing grows amid rising interest in Africa’s mineral value chains.
JN/APA