AMSZ Expo Demo Day Highlights Technological Advancements in Mine Surveying
The Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) has described the Expo Demo Day held at its 39th AGM, as a crucial event for survey professionals, offering them a hands-on experience with the latest cutting-edge technology and equipment, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Ryan Chigoche
The event took place today in Nyanga as part of the AMSZ’s ongoing 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and conference.
At the Expo Demo Day, AMSZ members physically interacted with new technology and equipment from Leica SA. Members had the opportunity to test the technology, see how it works, and compare it to the tools they currently use at their workstations, providing them with an overview of the innovations in mine surveying.
One of the Association’s primary goals is to promote safety, efficiency, and productivity, and new technology plays a crucial role in helping surveyors discover better ways to work.
In an interview with Mining Zimbabwe, newly elected AMSZ president Stewart Gumbi emphasized the success of the Expo Demo Day, highlighting how it allowed members to gain valuable hands-on experience with the latest surveying technology.
“One of the key takeaways is that some of our members are unaware of the technologies available. They get to see them firsthand and ask questions. These insights are brought back to their offices, helping mining companies adopt these new technologies,” Gumbi explained. “As you’ve seen, people have been very engaged. They’ve asked many technical questions about accuracy and cost, as they want to factor these into their budgets for 2025.”
Gumbi further noted that the Expo demonstrated the potential for improved efficiency and productivity in mining operations, while also minimizing safety risks.
“Now, people don’t have to enter inaccessible areas. They can measure them without exposing themselves to hazards. They can collect the same amount of data in less time. That’s efficiency,” Gumbi said. “These are the goals we are driving as an association. We want people to be more efficient, productive, and safer.”
The AMSZ Expo Demo Day comes at a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s mining sector, which is undergoing a technological renaissance. Innovations such as drones and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are reshaping the future of mine surveying by improving accuracy, safety, and operational efficiency.
As these technologies continue to evolve, the ongoing 39th AGM and Conference of AMSZ provides a platform to further define the future of the profession and continue the momentum of technological integration.
AMSZ is focused on several strategic goals that align with the industry’s technological advancements. A key objective is to elevate the role of mine surveyors in Zimbabwe, shifting the traditional view of surveyors as technical specialists to recognizing them as strategic advisors. These professionals are increasingly seen as integral contributors to mine planning, resource management, and sustainability efforts, thanks to their expertise in digital tools such as drones and GIS.
In this rapidly evolving landscape, the role of the mine surveyor is more crucial than ever, ensuring that the mining sector not only keeps pace with technological change but leads it.