With the third edition of the Copperbelt Mining Trade Expo and Conference (CBM-TEC) now just weeks away, conference speakers and delegates will be tackling head-on the real issues facing Zambian mining. From fiscal policy to power generation for mining, to local content development and value addition, the CBM-TEC conference will be an intensive two-day programme that sets out to help shape the future of the Copperbelt mining region.

“We have put together a comprehensive conference programme that will be challenging delegates with innovative thinking and strategy,” says event director of CBM-TEC Nicole Smith. “Leading local and regional speakers will be driving forward solutions for putting the Zambian economy back on track; proposing viable short and medium term solutions for Zambia’s power supply obstacles; looking at ways of creating an enabling environment to attract investment; and will be providing insight into accessing financial support across the mining value chain. It’s going to be an interesting and valuable two days for all delegates.”

Leading industry providers will be showcasing a wide range of products and equipment at CBM-TEC, taking place from 12-13 May at the Kitwe Showgrounds. The conference will bring over 30 top speakers to the stage. 

“We are thrilled to announce that HRH Kgosi Leruo Molotlegi, the King of the Royal Bafokeng Nation in South Africa, has accepted to speak and attend CBM -TEC in Zambia,” says Smith. “As conversations move more and more towards the issue of how and if local communities benefit from mining and foreign investment, Royal Bafokeng Holdings is a renowned case study for community empowerment through harnessing mineral resources. HRH Kgosi Leruo Molotlegi will no doubt draw massive interest from mining companies, license holders, government, policy makers and civil society.”

Other top speakers include Hon. Christopher Yaluma, MP, Minister of Mines and Mineral Development, Zambia, and Alfred Mwila, Director Economic Regulation, Energy Regulatory Board, Zambia, amongst others.

Zambia’s premier networking event

As Zambia’s premier networking event for international and regional companies that operate within the country’s mineral rich Copperbelt region, the CBM-TEC will add real value to an industry looking for innovative solutions.

Both the conference and the trade expo will provide a platform for government, industry and other stakeholders to hold important conversations about future opportunity and development in the Copperbelt. Industry statistics highlight the continued importance of the Copperbelt mining industry in Zambia and, although a tough market now, stakeholders remain optimistic and see potential for growth with some reports estimating that Zambia’s economy could grow by 3.4% in 2016.

“With the current collaboration and efforts to support the mining industry and an understanding of the needs of investors and operators, the industry will recover in time,” says Smith. “CBM-TEC is well positioned to provide a platform to stimulate trade in the mining and industrial sectors in the Copperbelt region and for decision makers and professionals to use the trade show to network, exchange ideas, share information and develop partnerships.”

CBM-TEC will not only focus on the mining industry, but will also highlight related industries such as engineering and manufacturing. Power and water will also be in the spotlight at the show.

New attractions that add further value to the show

New at this year’s show is the extended outdoor space which will accommodate bigger equipment and more global mining brands with interactive displays and live product demonstrations. “The outdoor setting will allow visitors to touch, test and compare the products and equipment that exhibitors are displaying,” says Smith, “enabling them to make informed investment decisions in new mining equipment.”

Smith also described the new Power and Water Pavilions as a vital showcase as both power and water are critical elements in mining operations. “The Power Pavilion will cover all aspects of power including generation, transmission and distribution, sustainable energy and application, which will help mining producers solve their electricity supply issues cost effectively,” explained Smith. “Leading power suppliers and water filtration experts will showcase new products, services, technology and solutions to the Zambian market.”

The free-to-attend technical workshops will provide an excellent learning platform, with technical specialists sharing their expertise with the professional mining audience.

“We are expecting over 1600 visitors to the show in addition to more than 130 mining executives at the conference,” says Smith. “It will be an exciting two days.”

In association with the Electra Mining Africa exhibition in Johannesburg, South Africa, CBM-TEC is organised jointly by Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery and Spintelligent, leading Cape Town-based trade exhibition and conference organiser, and the African office of Clarion Events Ltd, based in the UK.