By KENNEDY MUPESENI –
THE third edition of the Copperbelt Mining Trade Expo and Conference (CBM-TEC) gets underway today in the hub of the Copperbelt, Kitwe.
The country’s premier networking event is expected to open its gates to members of the public this morning and a check at the arena yesterday confirmed various companies preparing for the expo which has attracted 100 local and international exhibitors.
The activities included ferrying mining and energy merchandise that would be on display starting  today at the exhibition arena.
A comprehensive conference programme that will challenge delegates with innovative thinking and strategy has been planned for.
Both the conference and the trade expo are  providing  a platform for Government, industry and other stakeholders to hold important conversations about future opportunities and development projects on the Copperbelt.
According to the programme outline, issues being discussed range from fiscal policy to power generation for mining, local content development and value addition set-out to help shape the future of the mining region.
The expectation from stakeholders is high, especially that the expo is being held amidst low commodity prices on the international market and the energy crisis which has seen industries cut on production.
Kitwe Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Allan Nyirenda expects the industry players to use the expo to increase interaction to find solutions to the challenges facing the country in the mining and energy sectors.
Specialised Exhibitions portfolio director Charlene Hefer said the preparations were going on well.
“As you can see, exhibitors are preparing stands, with the machinery of all sizes shipped in the expo arena, everything will be set before the end of the day,” Ms Hefer said.