As his term as President of the Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ) came to an end, Eng. Abel Makura reflects on his journey, achievements, and the future of the mining profession in Zimbabwe. In this exclusive Mining Zimbabwe interview, Eng. Makura shares insights on leadership, industry challenges, and his hopes for the next generation of Mine Managers.
Eng. Makura, as you conclude your term as AMMZ President, how would you describe your journey leading the Association?
The journey of being a leader of this glamorous Association has been both a privilege and a responsibility. When I was elected into office, I set out to bring together professionals from across different sectors and commodities to converge towards a common goal of advancing the mining industry in the country through a community of practice.
I also strived to build professional excellence with a focus on future mining leaders who required support by creating learning opportunities for them. I allowed young leaders an opportunity to partake in most activities, where they got the chance to learn from industry leaders.
Looking back, which achievements during your tenure are you most proud of, and why?
Two things stand out for me during my tenure:
(i) The impact beyond our borders, as the Association was invited to participate in regional events.
(ii) Inclusivity and leadership diversity, where we supported women and young professionals. We got the first woman into Council and provided, and still provide, speaking platforms for upcoming professionals at our events, as well as mentoring and coaching them.
How has AMMZ evolved and grown under your stewardship compared to when you first assumed the role?
It has grown to be a name synonymous with success — an affiliation that brings recognition to mining professionals and leaders.
What five things would you change about Zimbabwe’s mining industry today?
- Responsible mining practices in small to medium-scale mining
- Commodity transportation system upgrades
- Liberalised power wheeling rules
- Open data portal for geosurveys
- Incentives for energy efficiency
What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Zimbabwe Mine Managers today, and how can they be addressed?
Lack of infrastructure to support digitalisation and smart mining to take Zimbabwean mining to the next level. This can be alleviated by partnering with local and international tech companies that can bring in cutting-edge technology.
Inability to retain skills due to flawed training systems for young professionals. There is a need to respect the mining engineering profession and realise that the future of this industry lies in today’s young crop, who must be nurtured rather than seen as threats to the establishment.
Are there specific initiatives or programs introduced under your leadership that you feel have made a lasting impact?
The motion to register the Chamber of Mines as a constituent body for the registration of mining engineering professionals is an idea still being pursued, which, if successful, will create a hub for professional development.
How has AMMZ contributed to developing competent technical leaders in the Zimbabwean mining sector?
- Through collaborations with academic institutions, AMMZ has assisted in reviewing curricula to ensure fit-for-purpose learning is administered.
- The Association has also created mentorship and peer networks.
- Incentivising best-performing students at tertiary institutions.
What trends in PGMs, gold, lithium, or ferrochrome mining should managers prepare for in the next 5–10 years?
PGMs
Focus should be on hydrogen fuel cell pathways, which are biased towards platinum and ruthenium. As such, emphasis should be placed on mining orebodies with higher prill splits for platinum while being cautious of higher palladium content to maximise the basket price.
Gold
Strike a balance between growth and net free cash flow to ride on the seemingly favourable current macro cycles. It’s advisable at this stage to target assets with low all-in-sustaining costs and strong community relations.
Lithium
Focus should be on low-cost, high-quality orebodies.
Ferrochrome
Watch out for Indonesia’s policy on ferroalloys.
Ensure the availability of anthracite.
What collaborations with government or industry stakeholders are you most proud of, and what outcomes did they achieve?
Collaboration with the Chief Government Mining Engineer’s office to review mining regulations was a significant achievement that strengthened engagement between regulators and practitioners.
What advice would you give to young people aspiring to be Mine Managers in the future?
The journey is seldom a smooth one, but one should never be discouraged by the trials and tribulations they may face. The appointment itself is a statutory one that carries accountability, so in addition to one’s technical skills, interpersonal skills are quite key to excelling in this operationally complex role.
What are your hopes for the incoming AMMZ Executive Council and the next President, and what key priorities should AMMZ focus on over the next few years?
My hope is that they continue as torchbearers. There’s no doubt that the incoming team will excel and continue to elevate the Association’s profile.
Local equipment suppliers and service providers in Zimbabwe play a key role. What have you done in your tenure to ensure they are supported ahead of their regional or international counterparts?
We have always ensured that we walk the journey with them. At every event or visit we undertake at operations, they get the opportunity to understand the needs of their potential customers so that they deliver the best products and services aligned with those needs and expectations.
In your opinion, what key priorities should AMMZ focus on over the next few years?
Improving safety stewardship in the mines and promoting responsible mining practices among its membership to ensure the sustainability of operations.
Your parting shots to AMMZ members and the mining industry.
The support over the years has been enormous and highly appreciated. Let’s keep propelling this vehicle forward, and together we will have a flourishing Zimbabwean mining industry.
Take these commitments forward:
- Non-negotiable standards
- Competence with humility
- Disciplined productivity
- Sustainable integrity
- Community with partnership
Where to from here?
Back to the work that matters — safe production, smart mining, and thriving communities. And hopefully, one day, it shall be back home.
