Mine surveyors in Zimbabwe are taking on a broader role in mining operations, with the profession assuming greater responsibility for the submission of grades, coordinates and other critical mine data, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The development was highlighted by Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) Vice President Jeremiah Gasitene on the sidelines of the association’s 41st Annual General Meeting and Conference, which is focusing on the evolving role of mine surveyors in the sector.
Gasitene said surveyors had embraced the additional responsibilities and were adapting to the increased demands placed on the profession.
“The progress that we made in terms of this issue of submission of grades and making sure that the surveyor is now in control of submission of the coordinates and also in charge of all operations at mines – that role hasn’t been the role for the mine surveyors but it has been given to the mine surveyors,” he said.
He said the profession had responded positively to the expanded mandate, with surveyors working to meet deadlines set by government.
“We have taken the mandate and we have seen significant progress as well as the results coming out. Almost everyone had to take or had to do their part to ensure that we meet the deadlines that were put forward by the government,” Gasitene said.
The increased responsibilities come as mine surveyors seek to move beyond their traditional functions and play a greater role in the collection and management of data used in mining operations.
Gasitene said the profession was becoming increasingly important to mining companies because of the growing need for accurate operational and geological data.
“This mine surveyor is now becoming more valuable than before and is no longer a peg pusher but is now a co-person in the mining industry who should drive the resourcing and collection of data for the mine,” he said.
Gasitene said the association was also strengthening its institutional development and professional links, including partnerships with government and other players in the mining sector.
“The association has taken shape and we are moving towards getting to an institution. People can now get their CPD points to progress wherever they want and get recognition everywhere,” he said.
He also pointed to partnerships involving government, artisanal miners and the upcoming association INSA as part of efforts to strengthen the profession and improve access to information and technical resources.
According to Gasitene, the changes have contributed to increased interest in the association, with members attending the annual conference in large numbers.
“That trajectory or that progress is what prompted people to come in their numbers because they are now seeing a change, and the change is well presented all over with the benefits that the guys are getting now,” he said.
The two-day conference, running under the theme “From Survey to Service and Strategic Partnerships for National Mining Growth,” brings together government officials, mining companies, investors and technical experts.
The discussions are expected to examine the changing role of mine surveyors and how stronger professional and institutional partnerships can contribute to improved technical capacity and growth in Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
