Since 1909, when gold mining started at the Sekenke gold mine, a positive trend in the improvement of mining technology has been observed in Tanzania. Focusing on the Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASGM) sector, the improvement has contributed to increasing efficiency and gold production; with metallurgists, mining engineers, geologists, and mineral laboratories contributing significantly. It is with great hope that your mining operation follows the same positive trajectory by choosing reliable and high-performing professionals.
Metallurgists (locally known as Wakemia) operate and supervise gold ore processing in VAT leaching plants and CIP/CIL plants. Zimbabwean metallurgists are credited for revolutionizing the way we process our gold in Tanzania and therefore, imparting the practical knowledge to locals. From this point forward, the technology is growing rapidly with our local metallurgists providing ‘fit-for-purpose’ solutions to gold ore processing problems. When choosing a metallurgist, it is in the best interest to choose an experienced one with a background in the type of ore to be processed.
Geologists and mining engineers are underrated professionals in the ASGM, with their involvement being in the starter stages but a brighter future ahead. The technical gap was covered by local prospecting and mining methods which largely proved to be cost effective for ASGM miners. Adding the geologists and mining engineers into the mining equation will fuel up the profitability and lower the risks considerably. The selection principle remains the same: ‘an excellent blend of experience and technical knowledge’.
Mineral laboratories or Maabara as referred to by miners serve as a confirmatory instrument in the trade. An old mining saying goes ‘Grade is the King’, but how do I know the grade? This is where the labs come into play. The labs offer reliable yet inexpensive ways to answer crucial operational questions: waste or ore, buy or leave, invest or move on? Notable laboratories that will serve your operation in Tanzania are SGS, Nesch Mintek, SML Labs, and GST with a longer list going on. Choosing a lab to assist you might be tricky but consider their customers’ reviews, international accreditations, pricing systems, and possibly the technologies they use.
Consulting firms are the youngest in the family but offer a multi-disciplinary approach to solving the problem you are facing in ASGM. Most firms have geologists, metallurgists, environmental experts, and mining engineers all under one roof, offering a wide range of services while others choose to focus on one niche. Consulting firms offer invaluable tailored solutions to your problems and frequently guide newcomers into the industry.
In conclusion, the selection of an expert or professional will still follow some universally known hiring/recruitment qualities. It is important to consider:
•Experience and proven performance
•Technical knowledge especially about the local areas’ geology, mineralogy, and mining history
•Trust, personal relationships and branding
•Budget
•Energy and dedication to work
