Chamber of Mines Annual Conference 2024 program unveiled
The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has announced its upcoming annual mining conference and AGM program with a comprehensive agenda designed to cover all critical issues for the mining industry.
Set to take place from May 28th to May 30th, 2024, and themed “Unlocking Growth Potential for the Zimbabwe Mining Industry,” the event aims to foster a sustainable growth environment that aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
President of the Chamber of Mines, Thomas Gono, highlighted the conference’s significance: “As is our tradition, we invite you to an update on our upcoming annual mining conference and AGM. The theme is driven by the desire to create an environment that sustains growth and achieves the economic transformation we all aspire to.”
The program includes a critical minerals symposium, a PGMs Indaba, the main conference, exhibitions, and various side events such as dinners, cocktails, and a golf tournament.
Isaac Kwesu, CEO of the Chamber of Mines, provided a detailed overview of the four-day event: “On the first day, which is the 28th of May, we will have our traditional constitutional meetings, the annual general meeting, and council meetings. These meetings address our internal governance issues in the mining industry.”
Day two will feature two key symposiums. The Critical Minerals Symposium will explore the global production and markets of critical minerals, particularly those driving clean energy.
“Critical minerals have become a major driving force in clean energy, and Zimbabwe is endowed with many of these minerals. We found it desirable to host this symposium to discuss critical issues, such as policy matters, operational matters, and markets,” said Kwesu.
Honourable Minister Chitando will be the guest of honour, with a keynote speaker from SFA Oxford providing insights into global critical mineral markets.
In the afternoon, the focus will shift to the Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) Symposium. Given the global developments in the PGM industry, particularly with depressed commodity markets, this session promises to be crucial.
“PGMs constitute the largest chunk of Zimbabwe’s export earnings. Delegates and other critical stakeholders are keen to learn about the future of the platinum markets and how Zimbabwe can navigate the current challenges,” Kwesu noted.
The symposium will feature contributions from current operators, new investors, and industry experts from South Africa.
The main conference, or Indaba, on May 30th, will be officially opened by His Excellency Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa. Senior government officials, including the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Mines, the ZIMRA Commissioner General, and representatives from the energy sector and financial markets, will discuss the industry’s growth imperatives and how it can harness capital from financial markets.
“Senior government officials and industry leaders will cover various aspects of the mining industry, providing updates from mineral sub-sectors such as gold, PGMs, and ferrochrome,” Kwesu added.
The event will conclude on May 31st with a networking day, featuring activities such as golf and other events at Victoria Falls, offering ample opportunities for informal engagement among delegates.
With a comprehensive agenda designed to cover all critical issues for the mining industry, the upcoming conference is set to drive significant advancements and foster collaboration across the sector.
For more information and to register for the conference, visit the [Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe’s website].