Mining Site Protection & Security Governance Conference

Illegal miners, known as “zama zamas” in South Africa, are people who enter mining sites without authorization to extract leftover gold and other minerals, often under dangerous and exploitative conditions.

As more mining sites in South Africa and across the world reach the end of their life cycles, the number of mine closures will increase, along with the need for more effective security governance.
The illicit trade of gold from artisanal and small-scale mining is now also being seen as a threat to international security. The World Gold Council estimates that as much as 20% of annual gold supply and 80% of gold mining employment comes from a supply chain controlled by criminal gangs and armed groups.
The rising unemployment rate in South Africa and economic uncertainties in the neighbouring countries drive people to participate in illegal mining activities as a means of survival. In South Africa alone, the unemployment rate has reached 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of the year 2020. As such, illegal activities (such as illegal mining) have become one of the sources of income for many unemployed people in the country including people from African countries who reside in South Africa.

This conference will address security governance, the complex issue of protecting mining operations and communities from violence, protests, and other disruptions. It involves a multi-faceted approach that includes community engagement, robust security measures, and collaboration between government agencies, mining companies, and local communities. Effective security governance to minimize risks, ensure the safety of personnel and assets, and promote sustainable, responsible mining practices.

Also, it will address finding a solution to curb the illegal miner, who operate underground and surface, stealing gold, diamond, cable and coal ore. The conference will help using technology and the combination of law enforcement and security personnel to curb the illegal miners in Southern Africa and beyond.

Objectives:

• Key aspects of security governance in mining and Security Risk Assessment and Advisory
• Security measure to protect operating mine from underground illegal miners (Zama Zama)
• To discuss ways of prosecuting Illegal Miners (Zama-Zama) in the court of law
• Compliance with regulations, and implementing effective security measures to mitigate risks
• The importance of Control Room System as source to protect Mining Operations Sites
• To explore strategies to prevent and manage potential riots at a mining site

To request for brochure to register, please contact Chris: 010 214 0666
Email: chris@maphosam.co.za