The mining industry is essential to the Colorado economy, and economies all around the world. In our state alone, mining contributes more than $8 billion each year, and 73,000 related jobs. In Africa, it is estimated the Democratic Republic of Congo holds $24 trillion in untapped mineral deposits, including ores, cobalt, diamonds, gold and copper. That figure is equal to the combined GDP of the United States and Europe.
These resources and the jobs associated with them, are critical to the world economy, and that's why it matters to the Colorado Business Roundtable. The COBRT is committed to supporting business and organizations that foster the growth of those businesses.
The Colorado Mining Association is one such group. Stuart Sanderson, president of CMA, joins us to talk about the upcoming National Mining Conference, held jointly with the SME Annual Conference and Expo, February 15-18th at the Colorado Convention Center.
Sanderson also shares that the mining industry is in a period of transition and consolidation, where some sectors are not as robust as others. The National Mining Conference is essential, to provide forums to build relationships within the mining community.
Later, Emmanuel Weyi, president of Groupe Weyi International joins us to discuss his work in Africa. Groupe Weyi supports mining in the Congo, working to ensure fair wages and safe conditions in an area plagued with corruption.
As mentioned above, the Congo is so rich with resources, everyone wants their piece of it, and many resort to unethical practices to get a share. Weyi feels strongly that the best way he can make a difference, is to return to his home land as president. He is currently running unopposed in the 2016 election for the Presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Listen in as we discuss his experience in Africa, in business, and his platform for improving lives in the Congo.
Listen Saturday at 1:00 PM on 710 KNUS – Please let us know what you think of our program, either by commenting here or on Facebook at Connect & Collaborate with ICOSA or join the discussion on Twitter @ICOSAMagazine.