Organiser adapts to changing environment

African mining professionals face a multitude of challenges that can hinder the ability to achieve sustainable growth, with research and market analysis company African Influence Exchange (AIE) responding to these needs by targeting three primary areas through its events.

These areas – regulatory compliance, sustainable mining practices, and health and safety standards – present specific hurdles that, if not managed effectively, could lead to project delays, increased costs or negative environmental impacts, says AIE MD Erena Karsas.

AIE’s events provide participants with targeted insights into these critical areas, consequently fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and practical learning that is customised to the distinct requirements of the mining industry in Africa.

The organisation’s events, workshops and masterclasses also create a platform where professionals can access current knowledge, regulatory updates and best practices, directly from industry leaders and experts, notes Karsas.

Regulations differ widely across African countries, with every country having different requirements for licensing, environmental standards and local content. For companies operating across borders, this “patchwork” of regulations can be daunting and time-consuming, she says.

“Our events address these regulatory complexities by providing insights into the latest legal requirements, ensuring that participants are equipped to navigate these frameworks efficiently.”

Karsas tells Mining Weekly that, by inviting local and international regulatory experts to present and participate, AIE’s various events offer actionable guidance on managing compliance, enabling attendees to implement effective regulatory strategies in their own operations.

This is especially valuable for companies managing multiple sites across different jurisdictions.

AIE’s events also have a significant impact on environmental sustainability: mining companies face growing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices, and the company provides workshops and seminars focused on sustainable mining techniques.

These sessions cover key areas such as waste management, water conservation and land rehabilitation, providing participants with the tools and knowledge to balance economic objectives with environmental responsibility.

“With increased awareness of environmental impact, it’s critical for mining companies to integrate sustainable practices that minimise harm to communities and ecosystems,” emphasises Karsas.

In addition, owing to the high-risk nature of mining, health and safety remain at the forefront of AIE’s programme focus, she says.

Through its practical, hands-on workshops, AIE addresses health and safety protocols, emphasising real-world applications that prepare professionals for emergencies and risk mitigation, create safer work environments and, ultimately, reduce the likelihood of incidents.

These sessions include simulated scenarios where participants practice emergency responses such as managing mine-site accidents and executing evacuation procedures.

Karsas is confident that, by cultivating a proactive approach to safety, AIE’s events encourage a culture of safety awareness that is essential for fostering a secure work environment across the mining industry.

While the events address immediate project requirements, they are also designed to support long-term capacity building in Africa’s mining sector.

Karsas notes that AIE’s initiatives aim to foster continuous learning and skills development to ensure the industry remains resilient and competitive.

“Sustainable growth in the mining sector depends on continuous investment in human capital,” she states, adding that, through a blend of technical training, strategic sessions and leadership development, AIE supports the professional growth of mining professionals at all levels.

AIE events also cover broader topics, such as labour laws, project management and human resources, which Karsas says helps to promote a comprehensive approach to industry development.