The Mine Ventilation Society of Zimbabwe (MVSZ) will hold its Annual General Meeting and Symposium from October 30 to 31 in Bulawayo, under the theme “Optimising Ventilation Systems for Operational Excellence,” Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Ryan Chigoche
The event is expected to set the tone for renewed discussions on how the mining sector can modernise its underground ventilation systems to meet the demands of deeper and more mechanised operations.
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, MVSZ President Dr. Tonderai Chikande said this year’s theme reflects both the changing face of Zimbabwe’s mining landscape and the growing urgency to make ventilation a central pillar of mine planning and productivity.
“The theme is both timely and transformative. ‘Optimising Ventilation Systems for Operational Excellence’ speaks directly to the evolving nature of Zimbabwe’s mining landscape and reflects the urgent need to modernise ventilation across the sector. Our operations are going deeper and becoming increasingly complex. In this context, ventilation is no longer a background function — it is the strategic enabler of safety, productivity, and sustainability. Ventilation must be proactive, intelligent, and integrated into mine planning from the outset. This theme challenges us to move beyond compliance and embrace innovation, energy efficiency, and real-time monitoring as pillars of operational excellence,” said Dr. Chikande.
His remarks come as Zimbabwe’s mining industry continues to expand, with increased mechanisation and deeper underground operations introducing new challenges in air quality management and occupational safety.
The upcoming conference is expected to provide a platform for ventilation professionals, engineers, and safety practitioners to exchange ideas, review legislation, and showcase technologies designed to enhance efficiency and worker protection.
The two-day event will feature a ventilation legislation review, technical presentations, exhibitions, and team-building activities aimed at strengthening collaboration and continuous professional development in the sector.
The legislative review is expected to be one of the key highlights, as discussions focus on aligning existing frameworks with evolving health, safety, and environmental standards.
Industry observers note that conversations around energy-efficient ventilation systems, digital monitoring, and automation are becoming increasingly relevant as mines seek to balance safety, productivity, and sustainability.
Over the years, the MVSZ AGM and Symposium has grown into one of the most significant fixtures on Zimbabwe’s mining calendar. It continues to serve as a vital platform for technical exchange and innovation, shaping the country’s efforts to create safer, smarter, and more sustainable underground mining operations.
