The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development (MMMD) says the ongoing technical workshop hosted by Datamine is a key step in modernising Zimbabwe’s mining sector, raising standards, and upholding best mining practices, particularly in the small-scale mining (SSM) sector, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Ryan Chigoche
The conference, running under the theme “Building Confidence in Mining Decisions through Integrated Data and Technology,” brought together mine engineers, surveyors, and industry professionals across all operational facets to explore digital mine planning technologies.
These tools enable safer pit design, accurate resource modelling, and more efficient operational planning, a major upgrade for many SSM operations that still rely on manual, paper-based systems.
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe on the sidelines of the workshop, the MMMD Chief Government Mining Surveyor (CGMS), Alfred Tavengana, said the training is critical in helping Zimbabwe align its mining practices with international standards.
“Zimbabwe’s mining sector must move towards global best practice, particularly in surface and small-scale operations where proper mine design is critical for safety, environmental management, and productivity. Platforms such as the ongoing Datamine workshop are important because they equip our engineers and mining professionals with modern mine planning tools that help ensure resources close to the surface are extracted safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” Tavengana said.
Many small-scale miners in Zimbabwe continue to operate without formal geological modelling or structured planning frameworks, often resulting in inefficient extraction, ore loss, and higher operational risks. This has created a pressing need for training and tools that allow miners to plan effectively, work safely, and optimise production.
The Datamine workshop addresses these gaps by providing hands-on training in digital mine planning and resource management, equipping participants with practical skills to model ore bodies accurately, design safer pits, and make informed decisions on site.
In recent times, digital mine planning has shown that it is not just about safety, but it also improves long-term productivity.
Proper pit geometry, slope stability, ramp access, and ore extraction sequencing can significantly enhance operational efficiency while maintaining environmental compliance.
With Zimbabwe continuing to expand production in gold, lithium, platinum, and other minerals, strengthening technical capacity across the sector is critical.
By encouraging the adoption of modern mining technologies, the workshop aims to ensure that both small and larger operations can meet global standards, maximise resource recovery, and operate safely and sustainably.
