Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) is set to host its inaugural artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) gold awards in December 2025, a move aimed at recognizing and rewarding the significant contributions of small-scale miners to Zimbabwe’s gold production, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
This announcement was made by FGR General Manager, Peter Magaramombe, during the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) strategic meeting held last month.
In his speech, Magaramombe acknowledged the impressive performance of the ASM sector in 2024, attributing 65% of the country’s total gold deliveries to small-scale miners. He highlighted that out of the 36.5 tonnes of gold delivered to FGR in 2024, small-scale miners played a crucial role in reaching this record-breaking achievement, which surpassed the previous year’s figure of 30 tonnes.
“We are proud to say that the artisanal and small-scale mining sector delivered 65% of the gold in 2024. This demonstrates the commitment and loyalty of our miners to the nation, and we feel it is only fitting that we recognize their efforts through these awards,” said Magaramombe.
The awards, set to take place in December, will focus on recognizing miners who have consistently delivered gold to FGR while adhering to responsible mining practices. Magaramombe emphasized that the awards are part of FGR’s broader strategy to encourage increased gold production and formalization of the ASM sector.
“Our goal is not only to recognize their hard work but also to incentivize miners to continue improving production. We will reward those who perform exceptionally well with tools such as compressors, generators, hammer mills, and other critical equipment that can help enhance their operations,” Magaramombe added.
The upcoming awards are expected to encourage miners to formalize their operations and continue selling their gold through official channels like FGR, ensuring transparency and boosting the nation’s foreign currency earnings. Magaramombe also announced plans to establish one-stop custom elution service centers in key mining areas such as Mberengwa, Gokwe, and Kadoma, which will further support ASM miners in the country.
With the ASM sector contributing significantly to Zimbabwe’s mining industry, these awards represent an important step toward fostering a more organized, productive, and sustainable sector. As December approaches, FGR and ZMF will continue to work together to ensure the awards recognize the hard work and dedication of Zimbabwe’s small-scale miners.