It would have been amiss for the mining sector not to discuss the impact of technology and innovation on industry and how that is influencing evolving operational paradigms. Debswana, having embraced the opportunity of a new journey that will require technology-led change and transformation, came forth to share learnings and successes. Head of Information Management, Molemisi Sechaba resourced as a panelist, a discussion on the next generation technologies that will drive innovation in mining operations.
The panel examined the role of connectivity and digital infrastructure in building cutting edge, next generation smart mining operations. They tackled the big question of ‘How can the use of technology, mechanisation & automation help mining operations improve productivity, efficiency, optimisation and safety as pits are getting deeper and some mines transition to underground’?
Mr. Sechaba’s discussion was premised on how Debswana is intentional about creating a culture of technology-centered problem solving and leveraging on innovation and technology for improving business performance in current and future operations. He shared on the Digital Optimisation roadmap and the Future Smart Connected Mine programme, as well as some of the technology driven improvements in operational efficiencies and productivities helping to drive high performance.
The Chair of the panel was Mr. Ishmael Thaga, Head – Transformation at Innolead Consulting and other panelists included Mr. Neo Nwako – Managing Director at Abaricom, Mr. Boykie Sebobi – Founder & Principal Consultant at AssetSure and Mr. Stephanus Coetzee – Senior Instrument Specialist at Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI).
