As Zimbabwe prepares for the upcoming Mining Ventilation Society of Zimbabwe (MVSZ) Annual General Meeting and Symposium scheduled for 30–31 October 2025 in Bulawayo, the conversation around digital transformation in mine ventilation has taken centre stage, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Ryan Chigoche
This year’s event, which aims to review and modernise ventilation practices and legislation, comes at a time when technological innovation is reshaping how the mining sector addresses safety and sustainability challenges.
With underground mines increasingly exposed to hazardous gases and growing pressure to improve energy efficiency, digital ventilation systems are emerging as a game-changer.
The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, AI-driven analytics, and real-time monitoring is transforming how air quality, gas levels, and energy use are managed—ensuring safer workplaces while supporting sustainability goals.
“The mining industry is undergoing a digital revolution, and mine ventilation systems are no exception,” said Dr. Tonderai Chikande, President of the MVSZ, ahead of the symposium. “By integrating advanced technologies like IoT sensors, AI analytics, and smart monitoring, we’re seeing major improvements in safety, efficiency, and energy management. Smart ventilation systems can optimise airflow, detect hazardous gases, and reduce power consumption—making operations both safer and more cost-effective.”
The 2025 symposium comes against the backdrop of a worrying trend: in 2024, Zimbabwe recorded 11 gassing accidents resulting in 12 fatalities—most of them in underground operations. Many of these incidents were linked to outdated ventilation systems and limited technical expertise, underscoring the urgency of adopting digital and data-driven technologies to prevent future tragedies.
Digital solutions offer a proactive approach—systems that automatically adjust airflow based on gas levels or temperature data, and platforms that allow ventilation officers to monitor underground conditions in real time. Such innovations are expected to feature prominently in the MVSZ discussions this October, as stakeholders explore how technology can bridge the gap between safety compliance and energy efficiency.
Beyond safety, the digital transformation of mine ventilation is increasingly tied to sustainability goals. Smart systems enable operators to optimise airflow, reduce unnecessary energy use, and minimise carbon footprints. This aligns with both Zimbabwe’s climate objectives and global sustainability standards, helping local mines remain competitive and environmentally responsible.
Dr. Chikande noted that the future of mine ventilation will rely heavily on data-driven decision-making, adding that as digital solutions continue to evolve, the future of mine ventilation is not only more sustainable but also smarter.
Government and industry regulators have also urged mining companies to embrace innovation to address persistent ventilation-related safety concerns. The Ministry of Mines has emphasised the importance of adopting digital tools to strengthen monitoring and prevent further gassing incidents in underground mines.
As engineers, ventilation officers, and industry leaders convene in Bulawayo this October, the MVSZ AGM and Symposium are set to provide a vital platform for knowledge exchange, training, and policy dialogue—laying the groundwork for a new era of digitally driven, sustainable mine ventilation in Zimbabwe.
