Stakeholders in the mining industry are set to deliberate on challenges affecting the industry when they meet at this year’s edition of Mine Entra.
The country’s premier mining, engineering and transport expo, now in its 20th year, will run at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair grounds from 22 to 24 July, under the theme, “Unearthing Opportunities”.
The expo will be officially opened by Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon Walter Chidhakwa.
Giving an update on preparations for the expo, Zimbabwe International Trade Fair company General Manager, Nomathemba Ndlovu, said space bookings are currently sitting at 84% with 147 exhibitors having confirmed their participation.
Three direct foreign exhibitors coming China, Germany and South Africa have also confirmed.
“Mine Entra @ 20 is taking place at a time when the mining industry is operating below capacity and liquidity amidst a number of challenges which include, but are not limited to inadequate capital and liquidity issues, power deficits, depressed mineral prices, a sub optimal fiscal landscape as well as the high cost structures.
“In spite of this, Zimbabwe’s mining industry remains a key driver to the country’s economic revival and is contributing 15 percent of nominal GDP, more than 50 percent of total exports and approximately 13 percent of fiscal revenue,” said Ndlovu.
The expo will open with the annual Mine Entra conference, which will be attended by relevant policy makers and senior government officials, among others.
“The conference will therefore address topical issues such as fiscal incentives necessary to support mining linkages and overall growth of the mining sector, empowerment models that support community development and a discussion on the mining policy and enablers to optimal development of the industry,” said Ndlovu.
The Joint Producers and Suppliers Conference will be held on July 23 with a focus on local procurement and supply chain challenges.
The Small-scale and Artisanal Miners Conference will be held on July 24 and will focus on issues affecting this special interest group, including improved mining methods, environmental responsibility, and acquiring financing.
Also scheduled for July 24 is the inaugural Mine Entra Charity Golf Challenge which will be held at the Bulawayo Golf Club.
