A well-subscribed and spirited Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) technical visit kicked off this morning at Blanket Mine, a division of Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc, with Acting General Manager Darlington Mabvoro delivering warm welcome remarks on behalf of General Manager Elton Gwatidzo.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The visit, which attracted a wide range of stakeholders—including student surveyors, women in mining, private survey entrepreneurs, industry executives, and surveyors employed across Zimbabwe’s mining sector—has been described as both timely and impactful for the future of mineral resource management in Zimbabwe.
“Without the surveyors, it’s not possible for all the achievements that the mining industry has achieved so far,” Mabvoro emphasized in his address. “The work you do in terms of measurements and quantification of resources is critical in helping us extract maximum value.”
Surveying: The Backbone of Mining Value
Mabvoro, speaking as the host representative, reiterated the vital role mine surveyors play in the mining value chain. He pointed out that surveyors form the backbone of mining success, providing the precision and data needed to make operational decisions.
“The work that you do is so critical. It helps us as organisations get value out of what we do. Your dedication underpins everything we achieve in mining,” he said.
He also clarified that Blanket Mine’s survey unit falls under the Mineral Resources Management Department, a department he described as the driver of innovation and sustainability for the mine.
Innovation and Technology at the Core
The Blanket Mine survey department, Mabvoro revealed, has embraced significant innovations and technological advancements. The participants are expected to be introduced to the cutting-edge software and systems currently in use, showcasing how Blanket Mine is leveraging technology to move towards becoming a world-class, sustainable operation.
“We hope to share with you the innovations our department has introduced, the software in use, and the direction we are taking to make Caledonia Mining and Blanket Mine more efficient, sustainable—economically and environmentally,” Mabvoro said.
A Platform for Learning and Strategic Thinking
More than just a technical tour, Mabvoro described the gathering as a strategic platform for mutual learning, forward-thinking, and sector-wide collaboration.
“I expect that the interaction we have here is not only about sharing information but also helping us think forward—to see how mine surveyors are placed in the growth of both the organisation and the mining industry as a whole,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude to participants for their commitment and urged them to make the most of the visit.
“I hope that by the time you walk out of Blanket Mine, you will have gained something as a way of paying back the time you’ve dedicated to come here—leaving behind your workplaces where you are adding value.”
Zero Harm: A Commitment to Safety
In a brief but pointed message, Mabvoro also reaffirmed Caledonia Mining’s commitment to health and safety, echoing the mine’s safety philosophy:
“Zero harm is possible,” he repeated emphatically—underscoring Blanket Mine’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of its workers and guests alike.
A Strong Start to a High-Impact Visit
As the visit continues, delegates are expected to gain deep insights into Blanket Mine’s surveying processes, technologies, safety protocols, and operational strategies. With such a diverse attendance and open knowledge-sharing atmosphere, this AMSZ technical visit has already made its mark as a benchmark engagement in the sector.
Blanket Mine’s hospitality and Mabvoro’s powerful message have set the tone for a collaborative and innovative future in Zimbabwe’s mine surveying field.
