Enhancing the sustainability of water management in the Zambian mining industry through cooperation of HAMK and GTK
The mining industry plays a significant role in Zambia’s economic growth, but there is still work to be done in areas such as environmental issues and sustainable water management. In collaboration with the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), we conducted a training program for instructors at the Zambian Mopani Central Training Center (MCTC). Through the newly-made training program we promote more sustainable use of water resources in Zambia.
Unsustainable utilization of water resources in various sectors, mining being one of them, has limited the availability of clean and safe drinking water for both people and animals. To advance the sustainable use of water resources, we developed a water management training module as part of MCTC’s extensive educational offerings focused on the mining industry. Nine MCTC instructors with expertise in water management for the mining sector, including areas such as dewatering and water quality monitoring, participated in the development and piloting of the training. The three-phase training included online education, a practical workshop in Zambia, and supplementary online courses.
The three main themes of the training were sustainable water resource management in general, water quality monitoring, and pumping operations. Together with the participants, we developed a curriculum based on these themes: MCTC’s new three-week short course will be based on the newly-made curricula. The topics were selected based on a needs assessment conducted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), also working as the funder of the project.
The three main themes of the training were sustainable water resource management in general, water quality monitoring, and pumping operations. Together with the participants, we developed a curriculum based on these themes: MCTC’s new three-week short course will be based on the newly-made curricula. The topics were selected based on a needs assessment conducted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), also working as the funder of the project.
We organized a total of 12 online training sessions covering topics such as the impact of mining on water systems, environmental risk assessment, and pump selection. Midway through the online training, we held a nine-day practical workshop at MCTC’s facilities and surrounding areas in Zambia. In addition, we also provided the training center with water education equipment, which will remain in use at MCTC also after the project. In the workshop, participants used the equipment to conduct groundwater research, water quality monitoring, and various pumping operations.
The training program developed in the UNIDO Zambia – Developing a curriculum and delivering training of trainers on water in mining (Zambimine) project is a step towards more sustainable water management for Zambia’s mining industry. With the expertise and equipment provided, MCTC’s teaching staff can train mining professionals in sustainable water management, promoting environmental responsibility across the Zambian mining sector. By enhancing the skills of those working in the mining industry, we support long-term efforts towards sustainable development. This work ensures that Zambia’s water resources will continue to protect the well-being of communities and nature also in the future.
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