Zambia is hosting the inaugural cohort of the Minetech Innovation Hub at the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research.
The project is backed by the Timbuktoo initiative, which is a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) program to boost the African innovation ecosystem by supporting and investing in Africa's top talent and start-ups.
In this regard, 10 innovators were picked from over 250 applicants from all over Africa; two come from Zambia and one each from Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, Nigeria and Tanzania.
The innovators are looking at safe mining, enhancing the accuracy of finding minerals in the shortest possible time (exploration) and optimising extraction among others.
The minister of technology and science Felix Mutati, welcomed the group yesterday, saying: “We are celebrating a movement that harnesses the power of innovation, collaboration and technology to transform mining into a sustainable, efficient and inclusive industry.
“This event is more than a ceremonial launch; it is a resounding declaration that Zambia is serious about innovation.”
Mutati said Minetech Innovation Hub was made through partnership and collaboration with the UNDP, the government and private sector.
He continued: “Through this collaboration the Minetech Innovation Hub, is made possible through our partnership with UNDP and the Timbuktoo initiative which represents a bold leap into the future. It is a powerful intersection of policy, entrepreneurship, research and impact.
“The Minetech hub is evidence to our commitment to fostering technological solutions that address the challenges of the mining sector. Through pioneering technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence and green mining practices that can unlock new opportunities for efficiency, environmental responsibility and economic growth.”
Mutati went on to say: “Mining has long been the backbone of our economy and as this government charts a path to increase copper production from 800,000 to 3 million metric tons by 2031, the challenge before us is clear, we must innovate to sustain and amplify growth.
“We must digitise the value chain, optimise operations and reduce the environment footprint and that’s exactly what this hub is set to do.
"Through the Timbuktoo initiative and strategic partnerships like this one with UNDP, we are aligning our national ambitions with the continental momentum. Together we are showing that African solutions, fueled by African youth can solve even the most complex challenges.”
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