Staff Profile

Qualifications

• Master of Science in Mining Engineering Degree (Rock Engineering) – (University of the Witwatersrand 2010 – 2012)
• Master of Mining Engineering degree (Mineral Economics, Mineral Resource Evaluation and Rock Engineering) – (University of the Witwatersrand 2010 – 2012)
• Postgraduate Engineering Occasional Studies – Mining Engineering (University of the Witwatersrand 2010 – 2011)
• Rock Engineering Professional Certificates (Chamber of Mines, South Africa 2010 – 2011)
• Bachelor of Science Honors Degree in Mining Engineering (University of Zimbabwe 2004 – 2008)

Research Interests

• Rock Mechanics
• Rock Engineering
• Experimental Rock Mechanics
• Mining Pillar Design
• Deep Level Mining Preconditioning
• Empirical Methods in Rock Mechanics
• Numerical Modelling
• Sustainability in the Mining Industry
• Artisanal and Small-scale Mining

ONLINE LINKS

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.za/citations?user=wiTuiE4AAAAJ&hl=en

Scopus: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=56705429800 

Web of Science: https://www.webofscience.com/wos/author/record/ACD-5566-2022  

Orcid: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1014-0405

ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Tawanda_Zvarivadza

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tawanda-zvarivadza-56383b27/

Skype: zvarivadzat  

HIGHLIGHTS OF PERSONAL EXPERIENCE INCLUDE:

• Part of a team of LTU and Swedish Mining Industry researchers working on a project to develop destressing strategies for mining under highly stressed conditions in the deep mines of Sweden.
• Worked on the Japan – South Africa joint venture ‘Observational studies to mitigate seismic risk in South African mines’- December 2012 – December 2015.
• Best Graduate for the year 2008 (BSc Hons Degree in Mining Engineering – University of Zimbabwe).
• Awarded a University Book Price for Academic Excellence – University of Zimbabwe.
• Holder of a Gaths Mine (Underground) Blasting License endorsed for Surface Blasting at BIMCO Mines, Zimbabwe.
• Holder of Master of Science in Mining Engineering degree (Rock Engineering (50% Coursework and 50% Research) – Wits University (2010 – 2012).
• Holder of Master of Mining Engineering degree (Mineral Economics, Mineral Resource Evaluation and Rock Engineering) – Wits University  (2010 – 2012)
• Passed Chamber of Mines Strata Control theory, Met Option (May 2010 Exam).
• Passed Chamber of Mines Strata Control theory, Coal Option (May 2011 Exam).
• Actively participated in the large scale Bokai Platinum Exploration Project in Shurugwi, Zimbabwe.
• Successfully spearheaded Atlas Copco Rock Tools Trial at Mimosa Mine Zimbabwe.
• Actively Participated in International Mining Engineering consulting projects at SRK Consulting, South Africa.
• Tutored Mining Engineering Students at Wits University and University of Zimbabwe.
• Actively participate in Res Life Sunday Night Tutorship programme (Engineering Mechanics, Physics and Mathematics) at Wits University since year 2010.

OTHER ACADEMIC AWARDS ATTAINED

• Postgraduate Merit Award – Wits University
• Centennial Trust Award – Wits University
• Bradlow Award – Wits University
• Year 2016 top publisher of accredited research – Wits Mining

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

• Graduated as a top student for BSc Eng (Hons) Mining at the University of Zimbabwe
• Hold two Masters Degrees from Wits University, that is MSc Eng Mining (Rock Engineering) and MEng Mining (Mineral Resource Evaluation, Mineral Economics, and Environment and Sustainable Development).
• Officially rated in the top 5% of academics at Wits University for teaching.
• One of only two candidates nationwide who passed the May 2011 Strata Control Certificate Theory Exam – Chamber of Mines of South Africa (now Minerals Council South Africa).
• Countries of experience include: Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, Tunisia, Japan, Turkey, Germany, Canada, USA, Sweden, Russia, Norway, China, Chile and Finland.
• Countries of exposure include: Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, United Kingdom, Italy, Netherlands and Brazil.
• Served in more than 30 committees of Wits University cutting across all university levels; School, Faculty and University.
• Have several years of mining industry experience spanning several mining companies and organisations at an international level. This include: large scale exploration, several environments for both underground and surface mining, International Rock Engineering Consulting, Numerical Modelling using a number of codes, International Geotechnical Research with several countries, Mining Machinery Service Industry, Academia among others.
• Member of several International Professional Organisations including: Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM), South African National Institute of Rock Engineering (SANIRE), International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM), American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA – Lifetime member), Society of Mining Professors (SOMP) and Golden Key International Honour Society (GKIHS) among others.
• Extensively published worldwide with international peer reviewed Journal and Conference papers published in Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Australia.

PUBLICATIONS Accredited Peer Reviewed Journal Papers

• Onifade, M., Adebisi, J.A. and Zvarivadza, T., 2024. Recent advances in blockchain technology: prospects, applications and constraints in the minerals industry. International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment, pp.1-37.
• Zvarivadza, T., 2023. Numerical Modelling Application in the Management of Deep Mining Excavation Stresses: An Illustrative Study. Mining, 3(4), pp.731-754.
• Netshilaphala, V. and Zvarivadza, T. (2022). Fall of ground management through underground joint mapping: shallow chrome mining case study. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 40(4), pp.2231-2254.
• Segaetsho, G. S. K and Zvarivadza, T. (2019). Application of rock mass classification and blastability index for the improvement of wall control at a hard rock mine. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 119, no. 1, pp. 31 – 40.
• Sengani, F., Zvarivadza, T and Adoko, A. C. (2019). Comparison of two adopted face perpendicular preconditioning techniques, Journal of Mining Technology, vol. 128, no.1, pp. 21-38, DOI: 10.1080/25726668.2018.1517204.
• Zvarivadza, T and J. N. van der Merwe. (2017). Reflections on low reef platinum mining pillar design systems as applied to a large platinum exploration feasibility project. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 117, no. 2, pp. 169 – 178.
• Maepa, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Installation of resin-grouted rock bolts in hard rock mining: Challenges and solutions for improved safety. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 117, no. 4, pp. 329 – 336.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Review of support systems used in poor ground conditions in platinum room and pillar mining: a Zimbabwean case study. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 116, no. 4, pp. 323 – 332.
• Chabedi, C. K and Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Multi-seam mining of the deep Waterberg reserves. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 116, no. 11, pp. 1037 – 1042
• Netshithuthuni, R., Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Application of aeromagnetic, remote sensing and geological data in the delineation of the geological structures associated with the hot springs at Siloam village, Limpopo province, South Africa. International Journal of Georesources and Environment, vol. 4, no. 03, pp. 141 – 146.
• Sengani, F., Zvarivadza, T and Netshithuthuni, R. (2018). Evaluating the Strength and Performance of Backfill Support in Deep Level Gold Mines. International Journal of Georesources and Environment, vol. 4, no. 03, pp. 163 – 168.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Sustainability in the mining industry: an evaluation of the National Planning Commission’s diagnostic overview.  Resources Policy Journal. vol. 56, pp. 70 – 77.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Large Scale Miners – Communities partnerships: a plausible option for communities survival beyond mine closure. Resources Policy Journal. vol. 56, pp. 87 – 94.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining as a challenge and possible contributor to Sustainable Development. Resources Policy Journal. vol. 56, pp. 49 – 58.
• Zvarivadza, T. and Nhleko, A. S (2018). Resolving artisanal and small-scale mining challenges: moving from conflict to cooperation for sustainability in mine planning. Resources Policy Journal. vol. 56, pp. 78 – 86.

Accredited Peer Reviewed Conference Papers

• Zvarivadza, T., 2023, October. A conceptual study on the prediction of destress blasting efficiency using geostatistical approaches. In ISRM Congress (pp. ISRM-15CONGRESS). ISRM.
• Mutsvanga, C., Zvarivadza, T., Adoko, A.C. and Onifade, M., 2023, June. Numerical modeling application in the design of regional pillars for an ore-replacement project: underground platinum mining case study. In ARMA US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium (pp. ARMA-2023). ARMA.
• Zvarivadza, T., 2023. A philosophical view on the application of destress blasting in deep hardrock mining. In 28th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Türkiye (IMCET 2023), 28 November-01 December 2023, Antalya, Türkiye (pp. 210-217).
• Zvarivadza, T., 2023. Application of destress blasting to manage rockburst risk in deep hard rock mining–a sustainable development point of view. In 28th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Türkiye (IMCET 2023), 28 November-01 December 2023, Antalya, Türkiye (pp. 76-83).
• Zvarivadza, T., 2023. Flexibility–a key feature of underground mine planning and design. In 28th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Türkiye (IMCET 2023), 28 November-01 December 2023, Antalya, Türkiye (pp. 393-401).
• Zvarivadza, T., 2023. Gender mainstreaming in Sweden: a plausible tool towards gender equality in the mining industry. In 28th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Türkiye (IMCET 2023), 28 November-01 December 2023, Antalya, Türkiye (pp. 966-974).
• Williams, S., Raseumako, G.A. and Zvarivadza, T., 2021, June. Investigating Impacts of Earthquakes in Open Pit Mines in Botswana. In 55th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. OnePetro.
• Mutsvanga, C. and Zvarivadza, T., 2020, June. Empirical approaches in regional pillars design for ore replacement projects: an underground platinum mining case study. In 54th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. OnePetro.
• Netshilaphala, V.C. and Zvarivadza, T., 2020, June. Evaluation of fall of ground management approaches as observed from a shallow underground Chrome mine. In 54th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. OnePetro.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2019). Principles of minerals marketing with respect to marketing of iron ore. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Sengani, F.and Zvarivadza, T. (2019). A reconsideration of preconditioning practices in rockburst prone ground conditions in South Africa. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Sengani, F.and Zvarivadza, T. (2019). Knowledge based system on laboratory tests on the static and tensile performance of steel welded mesh support. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Denhere, R., Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2019). Deriving best value out of Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth to enhance sustainable economic development. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Denhere, R., Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2019). Plausible policy framework to promote sustainable artisanal and small-scale mining. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Sengani, F.and Zvarivadza, T. (2019). Application of ground penetrating radar in deep to ultra-deep level gold mining in South Africa. 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16 – 19, Antalya-Turkey.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Review of pillar design and cutting practices in geotechnically challenging ground conditions. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Evaluation of tendon support in anisotropic jointed rockmass. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Adoko, A. C and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). A Bayesian Approach for Predicting Rockburst. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Adoko, A. C and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Modeling Rock Mass Deformation Modulus using Adaptive Techniques. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Ground closure monitoring systems on trial in deep to ultra-deep mechanized gold mining. EUROCK 2018 – the (International Society for Rock Mechanics) ISRM European Rock Mechanics Symposium: Geomechanics and geodynamics of rock masses. 22 – 26 May 2018. Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Kinematics and Discreet Modelling for Ramp Intersections. Proceedings of EUROCK 2018 – the (International Society for Rock Mechanics) ISRM European Rock Mechanics Symposium: Geomechanics and geodynamics of rock masses. 22 – 26 May 2018. Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Evaluation of factors influencing the effectiveness of backfill support in mechanized deep to ultra-deep gold mining. EUROCK 2018 – the (International Society for Rock Mechanics) ISRM European Rock Mechanics Symposium: Geomechanics and geodynamics of rock masses. 22 – 26 May 2018. Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). The use of face perpendicular preconditioning technique to destress a dyke located 60m ahead of mining faces. EUROCK 2018 – the (International Society for Rock Mechanics) ISRM European Rock Mechanics Symposium: Geomechanics and geodynamics of rock masses. 22 – 26 May 2018. Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). The implementation of de-stress gold mining technique along complex geological structures and heavily fractured ground conditions. EUROCK 2018 – the (International Society for Rock Mechanics) ISRM European Rock Mechanics Symposium: Geomechanics and geodynamics of rock masses. 22 – 26 May 2018. Saint-Petersburg, Russia.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F (2018). Calibration of yielding pillar performance in deep level gold mines. First International Conference on Advances in Rock Mechanics, an International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Specialized Conference (TuniRock 2018). 29 – 31 March 2018, Hammamet, Tunisia
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F (2018). Laboratory static and dynamic test of Garford hybrid bolts. First International Conference on Advances in Rock Mechanics, an International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Specialized Conference (TuniRock 2018). 29 – 31 March 2018, Hammamet, Tunisia
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). Orientation of radial fractures in the vicinity of effective face-perpendicular preconditioning holes. Proceedings of the First International Conference on Advances in Rock Mechanics, an International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Specialized Conference (TuniRock 2018). 29 – 31 March 2018, Hammamet, Tunisia
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). Yielding support systems in deep to ultra-deep level gold mining. First International Conference on Advances in Rock Mechanics, an International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Specialized Conference (TuniRock 2018). 29 – 31 March 2018, Hammamet, Tunisia
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). Borehole periscope observations of rock fracturing ahead of the preconditioned mining faces in a deep level gold mine. First International Conference on Advances in Rock Mechanics, an International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Specialized Conference (TuniRock 2018). 29 – 31 March 2018, Hammamet, Tunisia.
• Sengani, F., Zvarivadza, T and Netshithuthuni, R. (2018). Evaluating the strength and performance of backfill support in deep level gold mines, 29th Annual Meeting and Conference on Mines of the Future. Society of Mining Professors 2018 (SOMP2018). 3 – 6 July 2018, Beijing, China.
• Netshithuthuni, R., Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T (2018). Application of aeromagnetic, remote sensing and geological data in the delineation of the geological structures associated with the hot springs at Siloam village, Limpopo province, South Africa. 29th Annual Meeting and Conference on Mines of the Future. Society of Mining Professors 2018 (SOMP2018). 3 – 6 July 2018, Beijing, China.
• Zvarivadza, T., Sengani, F and Adoko, A. C. (2017). In-stope pillar scaling and fracturing in Southern African deep level gold mines. 26th International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2017). 29 – 31 August 2017, Luleå, Sweden.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Review of pre-conditioning practice in mechanized deep to ultra-deep level gold mining. 26th International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2017). 29 – 31 August 2017, Luleå, Sweden.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Evaluation of Factors Influencing Slope Instability: Case Study of the R523 Road Between Thathe Vondo and Khalvha Area in South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 81 – 89.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Assessment of Groundwater Quality: Case Study of Tshivhasa, Limpopo Province, South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 205 – 216.
• Mayisa, T. T., Nengovhela, M. E., Amponsah-Dacosta, F., Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. In Situ Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Phosphate Tailings for Exploring Reuse Potential: Case Study of a Phosphate Mine, South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 189 – 201.
• Mokone, E. R., Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Effect of the Heat Input by Dolerite Intrusions and the Propensity for Spontaneous Combustion in the Highveld Coalfields, South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 39 – 47.
• Magunde, L., Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). An Investigation of the Geotechnical Properties of Coal Combustion By-products from Matimba Power Station in Lephalale, South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 139 – 148.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). The Impact of Sand Mining on the Fluvial Environment: Case Study of Nzhelele River in Limpopo Province, South Africa. 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile, pp. 67 – 80.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Evaluation of the ability of an Electronic Load Indicator to indicate load loss in a cable anchor. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Performance of bolt-reinforced and fibre shotcreted in-stope pillars in rockburst prone areas. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Support design for large chamber excavations: case study of mechanized deep to ultra-deep level gold mining. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Evaluation of the impact of production rate on mine seismicity: mechanized deep to ultra-deep level gold mining case study. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Evaluation of in-stope pillar failure: a case study of deep to ultra-deep level gold mining in South Africa. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Garford hybrid dynamic bolt reinforcement system on trial in deep level gold mines of South Africa. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Zvarivadza, T and Sengani, F. (2018). Practice of face-perpendicular preconditioning for safe remnant extraction. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Dynamic test of flexi-bolts reinforcement system and its performance in hard rock underground mining. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). The development and optimization of face-perpendicular preconditioning technique for development ends. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). The performance of mechanical anchors in South African mechanized deep level gold mining. Third International Conference on Rock Dynamics and Applications (RocDyn-3): Experiments, theories and applications.  25 – 29 June 2018, Trondheim, Norway.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Analysis of intermediate and long term seismic hazard in mechanized deep to ultra-deep level gold mining. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Sengani, F and Zvarivadza, T. (2018). Application of face perpendicular preconditioning technique in de-stressing seismically active geological structures. 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Nhleko, A. S and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Platinum stock investment decision making informed through market analysis:  a case study of Anglo American Platinum. Proceedings of 3rd Young Professionals Conference – Unlocking the future of the African minerals industry: Vision 2040. Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 9 – 10 March 2017, Innovation Hub, South Africa. pp. 411 – 424.
• Mametja, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Slope stability enhancement through slope monitoring data interpretation. 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 3493 – 3501.
• Kgwete, M. N and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Review of stope support design for a shallow platinum mine: A Bushveld Complex case study. 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 3569 – 3577.
• Adoko, A. C., Phumaphi, P. T and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Quantifying Rock Mass Behavior around Underground Excavations. 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 2759 – 2767.
• Segaetsho, G. S. K and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Application of rock mass classification and blastability index for the improvement of wall control at a hard rock mine in Botswana. International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) International Symposium: AfriRock 2017 – Rock Mechanics for Africa. 30 September – 6 October 2017, Cape Town, South Africa, pp. 1007 – 1020.
• Lekhuleni, M and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Evaluation of crack displacement in underground excavations using wireless technology crack meters. International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) International Symposium: AfriRock 2017 – Rock Mechanics for Africa. 30 September – 6 October 2017, Cape Town, South Africa, pp. 521 – 534.
• Kwiri, J and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Development of a strategy to deal with the business risk of productivity improvement: A perspective of the platinum mining sector in Zimbabwe. 25th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2017). April 11-14, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 322 – 332.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Comparative study of ANFO versus Emulsion use in anisotropic jointed rock mass: A case study of platinum mining on Zimbabwe Great dyke. 25th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2017). April 11-14, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 43 – 52.
• Malambule, T. M and Zvarivadza. T. (2017).  Effects of geology on production rate: open pit coal mining case study. 25th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2017). April 11-14, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 362 – 373.
• Nephiphidi, E. G and Zvarivadza, T. (2017). Optimising face perpendicular preconditioning technique at a South African deep level gold mine with a view to enhance safety and productivity. 25th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2017). April 11-14, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 113 – 121.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Evaluation of underground coal mining induced surface subsidence using pre and post mining field observations. Proceedings of International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) International Symposium. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering: From the Past to the Future. 29 – 31 August 2016, Cappadocia, Turkey, pp. 1207 – 1211.
• Sekhokoane, L and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Investigation into the viability of mining Merensky stopes using Tensioned Cable Bolt support system: South African platinum mine case study. Proceedings of International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) International Symposium. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering: From the Past to the Future. 29 – 31 August 2016, Cappadocia, Turkey, pp. 727 – 732.
• Mashoene, K and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Backfill composition effects on backfill optimisation in massive mining. 50th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium. 26 – 29 June. Houston, United States of America, pp. 1458 – 1465.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Support design and mining practices in bad ground conditions: a case of Zimbabwe room and pillar mining. 50th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. 26 – 29 June. Houston, United States of America, pp. 1558 – 1565.
• Chikande, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Stability analysis and support design for longhole stoping prefeasibility study of a greenfield platinum project. 50th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. 26 – 29 June. Houston, United States of America, pp. 2673 – 2677.
• Moloi, M and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Investigating slope failure and rockfall controls at a South African coal mine. Proceedings of 6th International Conference On Computer Applications In The Minerals Industries (CAMI2016). October 5 – 7, Istanbul, Turkey.
• Makinana, S. O and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Evaluation of ground behavior monitoring system in an underground mining scenario with a view to enhance safety and stability. Proceedings of 6th International Conference On Computer Applications In The Minerals Industries (CAMI2016). October 5 – 7, Istanbul, Turkey.
• Maqelepo, A and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Evaluation of real-time ground behaviour monitoring above mining surfaces with a view to enhance safety and stability. Proceedings of 6th International Conference On Computer Applications In The Minerals Industries (CAMI2016). October 5 – 7, Istanbul, Turkey.
• Tlhoaele, R. P and Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Optimisation of backfill operations in massive mining – a case study. Proceedings of 16th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2016). October 5 – 7, Istanbul, Turkey.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2016). Artisanal and Small-scale mining administration: some unrealistic approaches happening in reality. Proceedings of 16th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2016). October 5 – 7, Istanbul, Turkey.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Coal mine pillar failure patterns explained through probabilistic analysis. Proceedings of the 49th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June -1 July 2, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 1418 – 1427.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Use of Rock Mass Classification in prefeasibility studies: An illustrative study. Proceedings of the 49th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June -1 July 2, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 1109 – 1117.
• Chinyowa, W and Zvarivadza, T. (2015). A review of pillar design for platinum mining to enhance stability: A Zimbabwean case study. Proceedings of the 49th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June – 1 July 2, San Francisco, California, USA, pp. 1235 – 1246.
• Modisha, S and T. Zvarivadza. (2015). A review of preconditioning and its influence on mining conditions with particular emphasis on health and safety. Proceedings of the 24th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2015). April 14-17, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 113 – 122.
• Lukhele, B. S and T. Zvarivadza. (2015). Analysis of the effects of stoping overbreak/underbreak on the effectiveness of support systems for hard rock mining. Proceedings of the 24th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2015). April 14-17, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 428 – 437.
• Uchiura et al. (2015). Reproduction of M2 class earthquakes by elastic Boundary Element modelling and constraint of Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion in a South African gold mine. Proceedings of the Japan Geoscience Union Meeting 2015. 24 – 28 May, Makuhari Messe, Japan.
• Kwiri, J and T. Zvarivadza. (2015). Improving utilisation of face rigs in bord and pillar mining: A Zimbabwean case study. Proceedings of the 24th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2015). April 14-17, Antalya-Turkey, pp. 514 – 523.
• H. Dodzo and T. Zvarivadza. (2015). A review of strategies for maximizing benefit of mineral development in South Africa. Proceedings of the AIMS2015 – Aachen International Mining Symposia: Fifth International Symposium on Mineral Resources and Mine Development. 27 – 28 May, Aachen, Germany, pp. 335 – 346.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Making the most out of Zimabwe’s Marange diamonds: Leaving a lasting positive legacy for the distressed communities. Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Mine Closure (MC2015). June 1-3, Vancouver, Canada.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Sustainability in the mining industry: an evaluation of the National Planning Commission’s diagnostic overview. Proceedings of the Mining, Environment and Society Conference: Beyond sustainability—Building resilience. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 12–13 May, Mintek, Randburg, pp. 75 – 86.
• Chirinda, T and Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Mined out pits reclamation at industrial sands mines in Zimbabwe: A case of cost minimization and community benefit maximization. Proceedings of the10th International Conference on Mine Closure (MC2015). June 1-3, Vancouver, Canada.
• Maimela, F. A and Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Waste dumping optimization for final closure profile: A South African colliery case study. Proceedings of the10th International Conference on Mine Closure (MC2015). June 1-3, Vancouver, Canada.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Rock slope design at great depth as open pit mining progresses beyond available experience base: Expected behaviour and potentially robust design approaches. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa, pp. 565 – 582.
• Zvarivadza, T and Chabedi, C. K. (2015). Determination of Fleet size and cost per tonne for a circular open pit mine – an illustrative comparative study. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa, pp. 443 – 454.
• Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Resolving Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Challenges: Moving from conflict to cooperation for sustainability in mine planning. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa, pp. 965 – 980.
• Zvarivadza, T and Tholana, T. (2015). The tribute system as a funding model for Artisanal Small Scale Mining: A Zimbabwean case study. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa. pp. 851 – 860.
• Zvarivadza, T and Neingo, P.N. (2015). Sanity through associations in the Artisanal and Small-scale Mining sector. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa. pp. 1051 – 1060.
• Chabedi, C. K and Zvarivadza, T. (2015). Multi-seam mining of the deep Waterberg reserves. Proceedings of the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa, pp. 647 – 656.

  SCHOLARLY ACTIVITIES

• Session Chair for the 26th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2019). April 16-19 2019, Antalya, Turkey.
• Session Chair for the 18th International Symposium on Environmental Issues and Waste Management in Energy and Mineral Production (SWEMP2018). 20–22 November 2018, Santiago, Chile.
• Session Chair for the 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Attended the Geomechanics short course on ‘2D and 3D Modeling of Rock Fracturing Processes in Geomechanics’. 17 June 2018. The short course was part of the 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Session Chair for the 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, United States of America.
• Participated in the Stanford University Campus and Rock Mechanics Labs technical tour of the 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, United States of America.
• Participated in the Stanford Linear Accelerator Centre (SLAC) National Accelerator Laboratory and United States Geological Survey (USGS) Menlo Park technical tour of the 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, United States of America.
• Session Chair for the 50th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium (ARMA2016). 26 – 29 June 2016. Houston, United States of America.
• Participated in the Spindletop technical tour of the 50th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium (ARMA2016). 26 – 29 June 2016. Houston, United States of America.
• Spent about two months in Japan in year 2013 undertaking research and training on Acoustic Emission Experiments and exposure to different rock mechanics laboratory experiments. This international trip enriched me with invaluable research and teaching skills. The cultural flavour of the trip equipped me with the ability to undertake research with researchers from different international cultural backgrounds.
• Peer Reviewer for the Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Since 2017.
• Peer Reviewer for the Resources Policy Journal. Since 2018.
• Peer Reviewer for the 52nd US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA18). 17 – 20 June 2018, Seattle, Washington, USA.
• Peer Reviewer for Society of Mining Professors 6th Regional Conference (SOMP2018), in collaboration with Mining Engineering Education South Africa (MEESA): Overcoming challenges in the Mining Industry through sustainable mining practices. 12 – 13 March 2018, Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Peer Reviewer for the Aachen International Mining Symposia (AIMS2015): Fifth International Symposium on Mineral Resources and Mine Development. 27 – 28 May 2015, Aachen, Germany.
• Peer Reviewer for the 23rd International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection (MPES2015): Smart Innovation in Mining. The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. 8 – 13 Nov 2015, Sandton Convention Centre, Gauteng, South Africa.
• Peer Reviewer for the 51st US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA17). 25 – 28 June 2017, San Francisco, California, USA.
• Session Chair for the 24th International Mining Congress and Exhibition of Turkey (IMCET2015). April 14-17 2015, Antalya-Turkey.
• Session Chair for 49th US Rock Mechanics/ Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June – 1 July 2 2015, San Francisco, California, USA.
• Organizing Committee Member for International Conference on Mining and Metallurgy 2016 (ICMM2016). June 27 – 29, 2016, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Technical Committee Member for Mining and Modelling Mining Solutions Conference. October 31 to November 2, 2016, Vancouver, Canada.
• Organizing Committee Member of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy 3rd Young Professionals Conference – Unlocking the future of the African minerals industry: Vision 2040. 9 – 10 March 2017, Innovation Hub, South Africa.
• Organizing Committee Member of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Conference 2018 – Fostering a regional approach to ASM transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. 10 – 11 September 2018. Nasrec, Johannesburg (Electra Mining), South Africa.
• Participated in the San Francisco Bay Geological Engineering Tour for the 49th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June -1 July 2 2015, San Francisco, California, USA.
• Participated in the Geysers/Napa Valley Technical Tour for the 49th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA15). 28 June -1 July 2 2015, San Francisco, California, USA.
• Attended the 2015 Africa Array Seminar hosted by the Wits School of Geoscience.
• Attended the Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Seminars hosted by the Wits Centre for Sustainability in Mining and Industry.
• Worked with Weber Mining South Africa on a large scale project to device approaches to implement new pillar support design systems in the South African Coal Industry. The system is new and regarded as pioneering. Year 2014 – 2015.
• Made a presentation at the 2nd SATREPS Seminar (2014) (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable development) on the work I did in Japan in year 2013. The seminar was held under the auspices of the South African government, Japan Science and Technology agency (JST) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
• Participated in the joint venture project between the South African and Japanese governments titled: ‘Observational studies in South African mines to mitigate seismic risks’. This is a pioneering project aimed at finding solutions to seismic and earthquake challenges in South Africa and Japan respectively. Year 2012 – 2015.
• Attended the Mine Closure 2014 Workshop on “Assessment of environmental impacts: the Geochemist’s approach”.
• Attended the 9th International Conference on Mine Closure (MC2014).
• Attended the CCBO (Compact Conical-ended Borehole Overcoring technique) in-situ stress measurement workshop – a joint venture project between South African and Japanese researchers. Year 2014.
• Participated in the Demonstration and meeting with Yield Point at South Deep Mine. Year 2014.
• One of the Hosts to the Japanese researchers who are doing Rock Engineering research with some researchers in South Africa. This includes a student from Japan. Year 2012 – 2015.
• Attended the Mine Planning School 2014 hosted by the School of Mining Engineering.
• Attended the Applying technology to Mining conference 2014 – hosted by the School and Sandvik Mining and Construction.
• Attended the Wits Postgraduate Research workshops.
• Attended the 2014 Wits PhD Students Writing Retreat.
• Attended several Public, Inaugural, and Memorial lectures by different professors including Wits dean of FEBE, Professor Ian Jandrell as well as the 1st Danie Krige Memorial Lecture. These lectures broaden one’s thinking capacity and one learns efficient ways of growing strong as a researcher.
• Attended the meeting on ‘Rock Mass Assessment Tools to prevent fog and improvement of aerial support systems in narrow-reef stopes’. Hosted by Wits Mining in year 2014.

PROFESSIONAL BODIES MEMBERSHIP AND CONTRIBUTION

• South African National Institute of Rock Engineering (SANIRE). Attend functions aimed at giving updates on industrial developments.
• International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM). Publish with ISRM sponsored conferences.
• American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA). Publish at ARMA conferences and also serve as Session Chair.
• Wits University Mining Engineers Association (WUMEA). Attend functions aimed at networking and continued professional development. Contribute to subscriptions used to help needy and deserving Mining Engineering students in their studies.
• Member of the Golden Key International Honour Society (GKIHS): The University of the Witwatersrand Chapter. Participate in different events organized by the society including the Thinkers’ Symposium, charity work and panel discussions among others.
• Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM). Attend functions aimed at giving updates on industrial developments. Also publish with their conferences.
• Society of Mining Professors. Receive updates on mining engineering education relevant to the success of Wits Mining.