Prof. Ravi NaiduUniversity of Newcastle – Australia
Contributes international expertise in environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.
16–20 NOVEMBER 2026 · LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA
ICSMES-1
1st International Conference on Smart Mining & Environmental Stewardship (ICSMES-1) in Africa
"Navigating the Industrialisation - Commercialisation - Environmental Stewardship Nexus for a Sustainable and Resilient Economy"
Avani Victoria Falls Resort
Livingstone, Zambia
16–20November 2026
01International Conference
3+Plenary & invited expert sessions
2Oral & poster presentation formats
Distinguished Laureates
Prof. Stefan PorembskiUniversity of Rostock – Germany
Brings academic and international perspectives to innovation in mining and environmental stewardship.
Prof. Lucky SikhwivhiluMintek – South Africa
Works at the intersection of applied research, technology development, and sustainable industrial impact.
Prof. Sue HarrisonUniversity of Cape Town – South Africa
Offers expertise supporting cleaner technologies, environmental responsibility, and collaborative research.
Prof. Stephen SyampunganiCopperbelt University – Zambia
Connects research, natural resource stewardship, and sustainable development in the African context.
WELCOME TO ICSMES-1
Where mining innovation meets responsible environmental stewardship
The 1st International Conference on Smart Mining and Environmental Stewardship (ICSMES-1) in Africa brings together academia, industry, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to discuss innovative, sustainable, and environmentally responsible mining in Africa.
Hosted by the O. R. Tambo Africa Research Chairs Initiative (ORTARChI) at The Copperbelt University, in partnership with the National Science and Technology Council of Zambia, Wits Mining Institute, and MINTEK, the conference promotes collaboration across universities, science councils, and the mining sector.
Through pre-conference workshops, plenary sessions, oral and poster presentations, exhibitions, and expert dialogue, ICSMES-1 will highlight the role of smart technologies, commercialization, and environmental stewardship in advancing sustainable development in Africa and beyond.
CONFERENCE THEMES
Themes for the 1st ICSMES Conference
Theme ONE: Emerging Technologies and Smart Mining
- Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation and Smart Mining Innovations
- Role of Nanotechnology in Mining
- Role of Mining in Energy Transition
- Best Practices in Engineering Design and Construction
Theme TWO: Mineral Extraction, Commercialization and Mine Waste Management
- Mineral Extraction and the Circular Economy
- Efficient Mineral Recovery and Energy Management
- Critical Minerals Resources and Extraction
- Commercialisation for Sustainable Impact
Theme THREE: Responsible Mining: Environmental & Social Impacts, Remediation, and Rehabilitation
- Environmental Monitoring of Mining Impacts and Remediation Strategies
- Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Practices
- Mine Closure and Rehabilitation Strategies
- Ecosystem Services and Mining
Theme FOUR: Transdisciplinary Issues on Smart Mining and Environmental Stewardship
- Big Data, Cloud Computing and Internet-of-Things (IoT) in Mining and Environmental Management
- Policy, Governance and Ethical Considerations on Digital Transformation in the Mining Sector
- Sustainable Value Addition and Beneficiation Pathways for Minerals in Africa
FORMAT & PROGRAM
Workshops, sessions, exhibitions and shared experiences
ICSMES-1 combines focused pre-conference workshops, plenary and parallel thematic sessions, exhibitions, tours, and opportunities to celebrate achievement across the smart-mining and environmental stewardship community.
The programme is designed to connect research, practical innovation, technology demonstration, site-based learning, and meaningful collaboration.
01Pre-conference workshops
Two-day pre-conference workshops will provide focused learning and practical engagement.
Two-day pre-conference workshops will provide focused learning and practical engagement.
02Conference sessions
Three-day conference plenary and parallel thematic sessions will bring together diverse expertise and perspectives.
Three-day conference plenary and parallel thematic sessions will bring together diverse expertise and perspectives.
03Posters & exhibitions
Three-day poster and smart-mining technology exhibitions will showcase research, innovation, and applied solutions.
Three-day poster and smart-mining technology exhibitions will showcase research, innovation, and applied solutions.
04Tours & site visits
One-day conference tours and site visits will connect delegates with local practice and innovation.
One-day conference tours and site visits will connect delegates with local practice and innovation.
05Gala & awards
An evening Gala and Awards Ceremony will celebrate achievements and contributions to Science, Technology, Innovations, and Environmental Stewardship
An evening Gala and Awards Ceremony will celebrate achievements and contributions to Science, Technology, Innovations, and Environmental Stewardship
EXCURSION ACTIVITIES
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR STAY IN LIVINGSTONE!
On the day 5 of ICSMES-1, delegates will have an opportunity to explore some of the exciting experiences Livingstone has to offer through a range of optional, self-sponsored excursions, including:
Victoria Falls Tour — Explore one of Africa's most iconic natural attractions and visit the curious shops.
Lunch Boat Cruise — Enjoy a two-hour cruise with lunch and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Helicopter Tour — Take in spectacular aerial views of Victoria Falls on a 15-minute flight.
Crocodile Park Tour — Get a closer look at crocodiles and learn more about these fascinating reptiles.
1
Lunch Boat Cruise
2
Helicopter tour
3
Victoria falls tour
4
Crocodile park tour
REGISTRATION
Secure your place at ICSMES-1
Fees include the welcome reception, conference materials, refreshments, and lunches. Proof of student ID will be required for student category registration. Excursion costs are separate.
Registration closes: 10 November 2026.
| Category | Cost $ (USD) |
|---|---|
| Students | $192.00 |
| Academic Institutions | $300.00 |
| Non-Academic Institutions | $550.00 |
| Exhibitors | $1,550.00 |
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION
Read the guidelines before submitting
Abstracts for both oral and poster presentations will be considered. For further inquiry regarding submission of abstract email ortarchi@cbu.ac.zm.
Abstract submission extended deadline: 16 October 2026.
Abstract submission guidelines
1. Abstract Submission
Abstracts should be 200 - 250 words in length, 1.5 spacing, Times New Roman font, size 12.
2. Presentation formats
Indicate the abstract theme and category (oral or poster).
3. Keywords
Provide up to five (5) keywords relevant to the abstract.
4. Abstract submission
Include the title, author(s) names and institutional affiliation(s), and e-mail address of the corresponding
author.
ACCOMMODATION
Avani Victoria Falls Resort
Conveniently situated in Zambia’s tourist capital, Livingstone, an adventure hub within easy reach of the international airport. The facility blends natural majesty and modern comfort.
| Hotel | Cost Per Night (ZMW) | |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Double | |
| Avani Victoria Falls Resort | 8,800 | 10,232 |
| Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia | 20,070 | 21,587 |
| Maramba River Lodge | 3,000 | 3,800 |
| Greenroof Guest Apartment | 2,870 | --- |
SYMPOSIUM SECRETARIAT
Get in touch
All enquiries may be directed to the CBU ORTARChI office.
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Email
ortarchi@cbu.ac.zm
Chair
Dr Lee Mudenda
Mining & Environmental Sustainability: ORTARChI
Copperbelt University
Tel: +26 (0)77 235 6040
lee.mudenda@yahoo.com
Co-Chair
Dr Bulelwa Ntsendwana
Director: DSTI/Mintek NIC-Sensor
Advanced Materials Division (Mintek)
Tel: +27 (0)11 709 4375
BulelwaN@mintek.co.za
Websites
cbu.ac.zm · mintek.co.za · www.wits.ac.za