SADC's mining sector has the potential to boost the region's economy if fully harnessed.

The Operationalization Plan for the SADC Heads of State and Government Declaration on TB in the mining sector suggests that the sector accounts for over 60% of the region's foreign exchange earnings and at least 10% of the region's GDP.

The mining sector has long played a significant role in the economic development of the SADC region.

The industry employs more than 500,000 workers, who are mostly from the region's rural areas.

Namibia's mining sector grew by 22% during the third quarter of last year and made up about 1.8% of the overall workforce.

South Africa has the world's third-largest mining industry, contributing about 8% to the country's total GDP in 2016.

In Botswana, the sector is estimated to account for 19% of the GDP and 92% of exports, making it the dominant sector in the country.

Additionally, the SADC region has mineral reserves estimated at US$5 trillion in value, with over 3,000 active registered mines.

SADC member states produce two-thirds of Africa's mineral exports by value and hold most of the world's chromium, vanadium, platinum, and diamonds.

It also accounts for 36% of gold and 20% of cobalt.