Movers and Shakers: Sithole joins Africa Institute of Small Scale Mining
One of Africa’s most decorated gemologists and former Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) Mineral Evaluator, Eng. Clever Sithole, has joined the Africa Institute of Small Scale Mining (AISSM) as Director of Innovation and Business Intelligence.
Sithole joins the AISSM where he will be responsible for implementing innovative solutions that enable business growth strategies for artisanal small-scale miners (ASM) across Africa.
Among his other duties, he will mobilise international donor support for start-up mining projects, design technical systems that enable implementation of formal mining, training and sustainable resource extraction for artisanal small-scale miners. At the AISSM, Eng. Sithole will be the vital cog in mobilizing international donor support for the establishment of Africa`s first gemstones certification laboratory and training. This comes through practical exposure and experience working at a USAID-funded project for the Islamic Government Republic of Afghanistan where he successfully implemented and managed the project as the DAI Invest Head Gemologist.
Eng. Clever Sithole is an internationally accredited Gemologist who trained at the Gemological Institute of America, World Gem Foundation (Spain), SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute (Switzerland), HRD Antwerp Institute of Gemmology (Belgium), Indian Diamond Institute (Surat, India), European Gemological Laboratory (EGL, South Africa), Certified Coloured Stones Grader & Pricing Specialist (Gem-A, UK), Certified Pearl Specialist (CPAA, USA), GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional, Diamonds & Coloured Stones Graduate (GIA), B.Eng (Hons) in Mining & Mineral Processing Engineering (MSU). Currently, he is enrolled for an MSc in Mineral Resource Management at the University of Free State, South Africa. His past experience includes 13 years of working experience at MMCZ. He is also an Associate Member of the Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA), USA.
The Africa Institute of Small-scale Mining is headquartered in South Africa with an extensive network transcending the whole continent of Africa. It is a dynamic organization that integrates logical disciplines along the mining value chain from exploration, mining, mineral processing to marketing. It operates in the areas of training, research, advocacy and consultancy for ASMs in Africa. It also creates opportunities for disadvantaged communities, youths, the physically challenged and women across the continent through various initiatives and programs. The AISSM`s goal is to assist small-scale mining companies and individuals with the right knowledge, skill, and network to foster growth.
On the 23rd of September 2022, Africa’s Small Mining Industry will converge in Accra, Ghana to applaud leadership and excellence in the sector. The event will offer the opportunity for stakeholders to unwind and network.