The Mandela Mining Precinct MMP a public-private partnership between the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation DSTI and the Minerals Council South Africa hosted a showcase event at the CSIR International Convention Centre on Monday, November 18. The theme of the event 'Accelerating Mining RDI Integrating Research Excellence with Mining Innovation' highlighted innovative mining modernisation tools and solutions, people-centred approaches to technological change and human capital development programmes.
During the event, the MMP featured a mix of exhibitions, technological demonstrations, breakaway sessions, an exciting panel discussion and an anchor address by the DSTIs Deputy Director-General Dr Mmboneni Muofhe, CSIR CEO Dr Thulani Dlamini and the Minerals Council South Africa CEO Mzila Mthenjane.
Through MMPs Advanced Orebody Knowledge AOK programme, innovative local and global technologies aim to create glass rock environments for mining development and technology adoption in South Africa. The AOK programme seeks to raise awareness of operationally ready geoscientific technologies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of mining operations. This includes drones capable of navigating enclosed spaces like underground tunnels to inspect, map and survey the rock face handheld scanning devices designed to detect hazards at the rock face and analysers that can assess mineral deposits in real time.
MMP Executive Director Julie Courtnage stated that the future of South African mining hinged on two critical factors sustaining current operations and integrating disruptive technologies to keep the sector competitive and inclusive. The MMP showcase event provided a comprehensive view of mining's current state and outlined a forward-thinking strategy to achieve modernisation, sustainability and zero harm.
Michelle Pienaar, MMP AOK Programme Manager, explained that the event aimed to improve geological confidence ahead of the rock face. With look ahead technology, unexpected features and events could be detected and avoided or additional engineering measures could be implemented to prevent injuries and damage to equipment. We have a very powerful opportunity here to help drive technological adoption to propel zero-harm strategies.
