GSZ Lobbying Government to Issue More Exploration Licenses as Mineral Resources Deplete
The Geological Society of Zimbabwe (GSZ) is urging the government to issue more exploration licenses due to the rapid depletion of the country’s mineral resources, as reported by Mining Zimbabwe.
By Ryan Chigoche
Zimbabwe’s mineral sector remains largely under-explored, hindered by a lack of modern technology necessary for thorough exploration and the creation of a comprehensive resource database. The country is believed to host deposits of around 40 different minerals, including lithium, chrome, nickel, platinum, gold, diamonds, iron ore, and coal.
Recently, Zimbabwe has witnessed a surge in mining sector investment, particularly following the adoption of the “Zimbabwe is open for business” mantra, which has led to increased resource extraction.
Significant exploration activities have been sporadic over the years and were often impeded by economic challenges and regulatory issues, despite the country’s vast potential.
With Zimbabwe lagging in the use of modern exploration technologies that are proving effective in other regions, GSZ Chair Ernest Mgandani emphasized the need for new exploration licenses to allow for the discovery of new mines, as current resources are depleting rapidly. He also highlighted the lengthy timelines required for exploration projects to transition into operational mines.
“The current mineral resources at operating medium to large-scale mines are depleting at a fast rate. If exploration licenses are not continuously issued, it will be difficult to replace old mines with new ones in the future, given the long time required for exploration projects to transition into successful operations. The Geological Society of Zimbabwe is lobbying the government to issue more exploration licenses so companies can deploy emerging exploration technologies and make mineral discoveries for a better future for all Zimbabweans,” said Mgandani.
As known resources are depleted due to overexploitation, there is a pressing need for further exploration to identify and develop untapped mineral deposits.
Enhanced exploration efforts could revitalize the mining industry, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable resource management. Investing in geological surveys and advanced mining technologies could unveil new opportunities and ensure the sector’s long-term viability.
This topic will be at the forefront of the upcoming GSZ Summer Symposium, scheduled for November 1st. The Summer Symposium is a flagship annual event where the society aims to promote the science and practice of geology and the advancement of Earth Sciences, in line with its constitutional mandate.
With a focus on geological exploration, the society intends for the Summer Symposium to share knowledge and experiences regarding various mineral resources (e.g., groundwater) and explore the best methods for locating these resources.