Zimbabwe must move quickly to adopt modern mining technologies or risk falling behind in the global minerals market, the African Extractivism & the Green Transition (AEGT) Zimbabwe has warned.
By Ryan Chigoche
The organization is calling for increased use of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced mineral processing techniques to boost efficiency and sustainability in the sector.
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, Lyman Mlambo, AEGT Zimbabwe’s Country Manager, highlighted the urgency of technological advancement.
“It is important for the mining industry to adopt new technologies throughout the whole value chain and move with the times to remain competitive. We need to invest in automation, AI, miniaturized end-user products, new recycling technologies, and the green transition to secure the future of the industry and the country. It is the responsibility of the mining industry, manufacturing industry, and government (as a facilitator through policy) to adopt these innovations,” he said.
Technological advancements have already transformed key aspects of the mining industry.
AI and automation have replaced many labour-intensive processes, making mining safer and more precise. Self-operating equipment reduces human error and cutting operational costs, while innovations in mineral processing allow companies to extract resources from previously inaccessible deposits.
Experts argue that if Zimbabwe does not keep pace with these changes, it risks losing its competitive edge.
Technology is also reshaping the demand for minerals. Recycling advancements are decreasing the reliance on newly mined materials, forcing mining companies to rethink their long-term production strategies.
Meanwhile, consumer electronics such as smartphones and computers are becoming smaller, requiring fewer raw materials.
The demand for certain minerals is shifting as well. Fossil fuels like hydrocarbons are seeing reduced use due to the push for cleaner energy, while minerals like lithium, essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, are becoming more valuable. With its significant lithium reserves, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to benefit from this global shift if it takes the right steps.
AEGT Zimbabwe is calling for a collaborative approach between the mining sector, manufacturers, and government policymakers to drive technological adoption.
Industry leaders argue that stable policies and investment incentives are needed to encourage companies to modernize their operations. Without supportive regulations, Zimbabwe could struggle to compete with other mining economies that are rapidly integrating cutting-edge technologies.
