State of the Nations event to highlight Indigenous mining plans

A first-ever conference, dubbed the "State of the Nations," aims to bridge the gap between Indigenous leaders and businesses as local mining ambitions surge. The Manitoba Prospectors and Developers Association has invited a half-dozen chiefs to present on their communities' mineral development projects at the Nov. 16 event, which is expected to draw 500 attendees.

The conference's primary objective is to strengthen relationships and provide a platform for knowledge exchange as mineral development accelerates in Manitoba. Renée Greyeyes, the association's chief executive, emphasized the need for businesses to understand the existing projects and potential for mineral development and export. Notable presenters include Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Chief Gordon Bluesky and Kiciwapa Cree Nation headman Floyd North.

The event's success hinges on timely relationships as the province pledges to triple critical mineral production. Shelly Bulycz, CEO of the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the significance of ownership and equity in projects, stressing the importance of contracts and supply chain integration for Indigenous participation in the mining sector.

James Beddome, executive director of the Manitoba Eco-Network, reiterated the necessity of Indigenous inclusion in mining, calling it "fundamental." The Manitoba Eco-Network is preparing to launch public workshops on mining practices, focusing on community involvement, legal reforms, and other aspects of the sector. The organization will host free sessions in Thompson on Oct. 20, Flin Flon on Oct. 21, and The Pas on Oct. 22, with additional events in Pine Falls, Brandon, and Winnipeg scheduled for November and December.