The MineTech Hub, one of ten sector-specific pan-African innovation and acceleration hubs established across the continent under the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Timbuktoo Initiative, has officially opened its doors in Zambia. This groundbreaking hub is set to transform the mining industry by leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative practices.
The MineTech Hub, which will also run an accelerator program, is the first of its kind on the continent with a dedicated focus on reimagining the mining sector. It aims to equip industry professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to harness the power of technology to optimize mining operations, improve safety standards, and minimize environmental impact. This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable technological advancements in the mining industry.
Hosted at the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR) and set against the backdrop of 100 years of copper mining in Zambia, the new hub sets the stage for a new era of innovation. The MineTech Hub is not just a physical structure but a space for reimagining mining from a fresh perspective, as emphasized by Natalie Jabangwe, Executive Secretary of the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation.
“We are not merely breaking ground on a physical structure; we are igniting a movement that aligns innovation with opportunity. The establishment of this hub symbolizes our collective commitment to transforming the youth of Africa into empowered innovators poised to revolutionize our mining sector and beyond,” said Jabangwe.
The MineTech Hub is designed to create an enabling environment for innovation and technology uptake, particularly in the mining industry. Over the next decade, the Timbuktoo Initiative is committed to investing US$1 billion to support startup ecosystems across Africa. This substantial investment underscores the initiative’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and technological advancement on the continent.
By providing a platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs, the MineTech Hub aims to drive significant improvements in mining practices, ensuring that the industry can meet the challenges of the future while promoting sustainability and economic growth. This hub represents a bold step forward in the journey towards a more innovative and resilient mining sector in Africa.
