All Set for the 39th AGM of the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ)
The 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) will take place from November 20–22, 2024, in the tranquil resort town of Nyanga.
By Ryan Chigoche
With the theme “From Survey to Strategy: Empowering Mine Surveyors as Leaders in the Mining Industry for Sustainable Growth,” this year’s event will highlight how mine surveyors can transition from technical specialists to strategic leaders who drive safety, efficiency, and sustainability in mining.
Central to the conference is the recognition that surveyors play a vital role not only in data collection and analysis but also in shaping mining strategies that foster safer and more sustainable practices. The discussions will explore how surveyors can enhance their influence within mining operations by leveraging both technical expertise and a broader vision for industry growth.
Stewart Gumbi, spokesperson for AMSZ, emphasized the importance of the theme during an interview with Mining Zimbabwe.
“The theme, ‘From Survey to Strategy,’ perfectly encapsulates the exciting evolution happening in mine surveying. It’s no longer just about precise measurements; it’s about leveraging those measurements to inform critical decisions and shape the future of mining operations,” Gumbi said.
He underscored the expanding role of mine surveyors in leadership and strategy, adding:
“Mine surveyors are evolving from technical specialists to strategic leaders who provide critical data-driven insights, guiding the mining industry towards a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future. This theme signifies an exciting transformation and highlights the growing importance of surveyors in shaping the mining sector’s future.”
As mining operations grow increasingly complex, the expertise of mine surveyors is becoming integral to developing long-term strategies that go beyond resource extraction. Their work is critical in enabling sustainability, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring safety across the sector.
Evolving Roles: From Data Experts to Strategic Leaders
Gumbi elaborated on five key areas where mine surveyors are poised to expand their influence:
- Data Champions and Interpreters:
- Beyond data collection, surveyors are becoming custodians of vast geospatial data, analyzing it to uncover trends and deliver insights for strategic decision-making.
- By integrating their data with geological models, they contribute to predictive modeling, optimizing resource extraction and minimizing risks.
- Technology Integrators:
- Mine surveyors are embracing innovations like drones, 3D laser scanning, and AI-powered analytics, driving efficiency and sustainability.
- As digital transformation leaders, they are instrumental in integrating surveying data with broader operational systems.
- Strategic Advisors:
- Surveyors now serve as trusted advisors in mine planning, resource estimation, and environmental management.
- Their insights shape decisions that align with long-term goals of safety and sustainability.
- Cross-Functional Collaborators:
- Acting as a bridge between departments, surveyors collaborate with geologists, engineers, and operational teams to streamline workflows.
- Through clear visualizations and reporting, they facilitate informed decision-making across organizations.
- Sustainability Champions:
- Surveyors play a vital role in monitoring environmental impacts, ensuring compliance, and promoting responsible mining.
- They optimize resource utilization to minimize waste while balancing economic and environmental goals.
Addressing Unique Challenges in Zimbabwe
Gumbi also highlighted the need to address Zimbabwe’s specific mining context, particularly in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. He advocated for tailored programs to promote safety, sustainability, and compliance while engaging local communities through transparent decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the “From Survey to Strategy” theme underscores the evolving significance of mine surveyors as pivotal leaders in the industry. As champions of safety, sustainability, and efficiency, their contributions will shape the future of mining in Zimbabwe and beyond.