Mining ZimbabweLatest Mining News, Policy and Industry Updates

Bikita Minerals is set to host a Free Medical Consultation and Treatment Session in collaboration with the Chinese 22nd Medical Team, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The two-day health outreach will take place on July 1–2, 2025, at the Bikita Minerals Clinic and will be open to employees, their immediate family members, and the surrounding local community.

This initiative is part of Bikita Minerals’ ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda, which places strong emphasis on inclusive development, particularly in rural and mining-affected communities. With healthcare access still a challenge for many in remote parts of Zimbabwe, the event is expected to provide critical medical support and education to hundreds of people — at no cost.

The Chinese 22nd Medical Team, known for their expertise and humanitarian work across Africa, will deliver comprehensive health services ranging from general medical consultations, diagnostics, dental check-ups, and basic treatments, to health education sessions aimed at promoting preventative care and long-term wellness. Medicines will also be distributed to those in need, further easing the burden of healthcare expenses.

According to Bikita Minerals Public Relations Officer, Mr. Collen Nikisi, the outreach represents the company’s enduring commitment to the well-being of both its workforce and the local population.

“We believe that mining must go hand-in-hand with development that benefits the communities we operate in. Good health is foundational to that. This is not just a one-time event — it’s part of a broader drive to improve lives.”

The event will kick off at 8:00 AM on both days, and residents from nearby villages and communities are being encouraged to attend with their families. Notices have already been circulated, and anticipation is growing, especially among those who rarely get the chance to see a medical professional due to distance or cost.

“Access to quality healthcare should not be a privilege,” said Mr. Nikisi. “We want our community to know that we care about them, not just as a company operating in the area, but as a committed development partner.”

Many residents have welcomed the upcoming outreach. For people living in Bikita and nearby areas, where the nearest hospital or well-resourced clinic may be several kilometres away, the chance to receive medical attention close to home is both convenient and vital. The initiative is expected to benefit vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those living with chronic conditions who often struggle with access to care.

This initiative is especially timely given the current socio-economic challenges facing many Zimbabweans, particularly in rural settings. Inflation, transport costs, and limited healthcare infrastructure often force people to delay or forgo treatment. The upcoming outreach, therefore, serves not just as a health intervention, but also a major morale booster.

Beyond medical treatment, the outreach will focus on health education, including awareness of hygiene, nutrition, chronic disease management, and mental health. By empowering people with knowledge, Bikita Minerals and its partners aim to foster a more proactive approach to health in the community.

The collaboration with the Chinese 22nd Medical Team reflects the strengthening of bilateral ties between China and Zimbabwe, especially in areas of health, education, and infrastructure development. Chinese medical teams have been working in Zimbabwe for years, offering vital support in hospitals and health institutions, often in underserved regions. This initiative is a continuation of that goodwill, now being channelled through strategic partnerships with private sector players like Bikita Minerals.

Bikita Minerals, owned by Sinomine Resource Group, has rapidly become one of Zimbabwe’s flagship lithium producers. With rising global demand for lithium — a key mineral in battery production for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage — the company is playing a major role in the country’s mining growth trajectory. However, it has also made it clear that its success must translate into shared value for local communities.

This upcoming medical outreach is just one among several development initiatives the company has pledged to undertake in the Bikita area. Others include road improvements, school support, and water infrastructure projects. By taking a holistic approach to CSR, Bikita Minerals is working to redefine what it means to be a responsible miner in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe is stepping up efforts to unlock the full potential of its vast but under-utilised mineral resources by prioritising increased exploration and creating a stable, investor-friendly policy environment.

By Ryan Chigoche

Mining remains a vital pillar of the economy, contributing about 12 percent to GDP and nearly 80 percent of export earnings. The government sees the sector as key to achieving economic growth targets under Vision 2030.

Yet, limited exploration and insufficient capital investment have so far hindered the country from fully tapping its mineral wealth.

At the London Indaba 2025, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando highlighted the need for greater exploration.

He noted that while Zimbabwe has over 60 recorded minerals, only about ten are actively mined, mainly due to inadequate exploration.

“In Zimbabwe, we have good geology and a competent skills base, but not sufficient capital commensurate to unlock the mineral potential in the country,” he said.

The minister emphasised Zimbabwe’s open and inclusive mineral policy, stating: “Zimbabwe tries to be a friend to all and an enemy to none. As far as our mineral policy is concerned, we are concentrating on ensuring maximum extraction of minerals and maximum value addition in partnership with various investors from all corners of the world.”

Beyond these fundamentals, Chitando stressed that a stable and predictable legal framework is critical for attracting investment.

The government has committed to maintaining consistent, competent legislation that endures changes in government and budget cycles, giving investors confidence for the long term.

Clear and consistent policies are essential not only to boost exploration and mining but also to promote beneficiation where commercially viable. The minister pointed to progress by platinum and lithium miners, who have conducted feasibility studies for refinery and processing capacity in collaboration with consultants.

Private sector investment is also growing in related industries, including carbon steel production, which is expected to expand into stainless steel manufacturing. Additionally, local companies are increasing lithium sulphate production alongside concentrate output, signalling a push towards more downstream mineral processing.

These remarks come as Zimbabwe advances efforts to diversify mineral production, increase value addition, and position itself as a competitive mining investment destination in the region.

Young people studying mine surveying have been tipped to play a central role in shaping the future of the profession in Zimbabwe, with the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) calling for more student participation as it builds a stronger, forward-looking industry, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking on the sidelines of a well-attended AMSZ technical visit to Blanket Mine in Gwanda on Friday, AMSZ Secretary General Takunda Paul Mubaiwa said students are not only the future of surveying but the carriers of innovation, energy, and modern ideals that can help elevate Zimbabwe’s mining industry—provided they are guided and empowered by industry veterans.

“We rely on young people for growth, continuity, innovation—even for the energy they bring. We prioritise students to the core,” Mubaiwa said.

From Learners to Leaders: AMSZ Opens Doors for Survey Students

Mubaiwa said AMSZ is committed to ensuring that Zimbabwean students receive training that matches international standards, with a deliberate focus on closing the gap between academic learning and practical application.

“As students go through attachments and industrial training, we want them to gain the best practices—not just textbook theory, but knowledge from those already on the ground,” he said.

Through AMSZ events, students are given rare access to industry networks, exposure to modern technologies, and practical insights that can define their career paths early on. Mubaiwa said this platform gives students direct guidance on the various streams within surveying—from mine planning to resource modelling, equipment procurement, and even compliance.

More Than Just Jobs: Opening the Path to Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Mubaiwa challenged students to think beyond employment, noting that mine surveying is evolving and no longer just about working underground or producing plans. With digitalisation and data science increasingly driving decisions in mining, Mubaiwa said the youth can lead in developing software, hardware, and new tools for the sector.

“Some students still think the diploma ends in a job. But we are saying, you can go into consultancy, you can develop software, you can manufacture survey-grade tools and drones. AMSZ will help you connect with those already doing it—locally and regionally,” he said.

The Future Surveyor: From Data Collectors to Decision Enablers

Today’s surveyors are expected to do more than generate plans—they must collect, process, and integrate data into systems that influence the financial bottom line of mining operations. Mubaiwa said that’s why students must engage early with professionals, systems, and tools that define modern practice.

He cited Blanket Mine’s integration of JSWIC, a software system that pools data from multiple departments, as a great example of how mine surveyors are central to real-time decision-making and cost control.

“Surveyors now influence business outcomes. It’s no longer just coordinates. It’s about how the data you generate feeds into planning, production, and dollars.”

A Call to Action

Mubaiwa said AMSZ is actively encouraging more student membership, noting that students who join benefit from:

• Exposure to current technologies through field visits

• Mentorship from seasoned professionals

• Early access to career pathways and entrepreneurial support

• Opportunities to attend local and regional conferences

“The advantages are plenty,” Mubaiwa said. “You get to learn from the people who are already doing what you want to do. Some of the most valuable knowledge is not in books—it’s in the stories, systems, and mistakes of those who’ve gone before you.”

As Zimbabwe’s mining sector becomes more competitive, data-driven, and regulated, the role of the surveyor will only grow in importance. Students willing to engage early—through organisations like AMSZ—will not only be better prepared for the future but positioned to lead it.

AIM-listed mining and exploration junior Premier African Minerals Limited has moved to strengthen its leadership and operational capacity with the appointment of Mr. Graham Hill as Managing Director (non-Board), effective 16 July 2025, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

This decision comes at a time when the Zulu Lithium and Tantalum Project, Premier’s flagship operation in Zimbabwe, faces increased pressure to deliver on its promise of profitable, long-term production.

The appointment of Mr. Hill signals a strategic shift, following months of uncertainty, shareholder dissatisfaction, and technical challenges at Zulu. Stakeholders had increasingly raised concerns about the previous leadership under George Roach, who officially stepped down on 20 May 2025. Mr. Roach’s tenure, though marked by determination to bring Zulu online, became clouded by operational delays, unclear communication, and controversial equity financing decisions that left investors uneasy.

The company’s recent US$600,000 fundraise to support Zulu was met with a lukewarm response, with some stakeholders questioning the adequacy of the amount and the terms under which it was secured. This followed a contentious equity-based payment to a contractor, a move that some investors interpreted as symptomatic of deeper financial and planning issues. In light of this, Premier’s decision to bring in Mr. Hill appears both timely and necessary.

Graham Hill: A Technical Hand to Steady the Ship

Premier Chairman Godfrey Manhambara expressed both relief and optimism in welcoming Hill: “I am pleased and relieved that Graham has accepted this. I expect that his contribution to the final resolution of the issues at Zulu will be marked and significant. Graham has wide experience that has direct relevance to our operations, and I welcome his hands-on direct approach at Zulu.”

Mr. Hill’s résumé speaks volumes. A qualified engineer with over 41 years of experience across Africa, Southern Europe, and Central Asia, Hill has a solid reputation for delivering mines under challenging conditions. His most recent role was as Chief Operating Officer of Adriatic Metals PLC, where he was instrumental in advancing the Vares Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina through feasibility and development.

Previously, Hill led the commissioning of the Silver Bear silver mine in eastern Siberia and was responsible for the development of multiple mining projects for Oxus Gold plc. His early career saw him rise through the ranks at Anglo American, where he led the construction of three operations across South Africa and Mali. He later served as COO at Axmin, managing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and infrastructure planning at the Passendro Gold Project in the Central African Republic.

A Mandate Beyond Production

Mr. Hill’s appointment is not just a matter of improving plant throughput or increasing recovery rates. It reflects a broader mandate to rebuild stakeholder confidence, stabilise project delivery, and reorient the company’s governance and communication approach. His presence on the ground at Zulu is expected to bring structure, direction, and technical leadership—something many stakeholders believe had been lacking.

The company has also signalled that, subject to the successful completion of regulatory checks and a probationary period, Mr. Hill may be invited to join the Board as Chief Executive Officer. If confirmed, he would formally succeed George Roach in the top role, with a clear remit to overhaul both operational and investor relations.

The Road Ahead for Zulu

The Zulu Project, once a source of investor excitement, has in recent months become a focal point of shareholder frustration. Commissioning issues, unclear timelines, and inconsistent updates had shaken confidence. But with global demand for lithium still growing and Zimbabwe positioned as a strategic player in the battery minerals race, Premier still holds a valuable asset—if it can execute effectively.

Mr. Hill’s engineering background, combined with his practical mine-building experience, suggests a no-nonsense approach is on the way. His track record of navigating both emerging and developed market challenges aligns well with the realities on the ground in Zimbabwe, where logistical, power, and community engagement hurdles remain significant.

Investor Sentiment and Market Outlook

While some scepticism remains among long-term shareholders bruised by the past year’s events, the announcement of Hill’s appointment has already been met with cautious optimism in investor circles. His name brings credibility, and his work ethic—described as “hands-on” by Manhambara—could be exactly what’s needed to transform Zulu from a site of potential to a source of consistent production.

The company’s future may hinge on Hill’s ability to do three things quickly: stabilise operations, build transparency into every layer of the project, and chart a financially sustainable roadmap that avoids further dilution or questionable fundraising tactics.

Namib Minerals, a gold producer and explorer listed on Nasdaq, has unveiled ambitious plans to diversify its portfolio by becoming a significant producer of green metals, including copper and cobalt, within the next five years.

By Ryan Chigoche

Namib operates three key gold mines in Zimbabwe, which form the core of its local portfolio.

Apart from that, the company also owns green mineral assets, including multiple battery metals exploration permits in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with potential for copper and cobalt.

This was revealed by Namib Minerals CEO Ibrahima Tall in a recent meeting.

“Green metals are the future. We intend to move from being just a gold producer to becoming a producer of both gold and battery metals. This transition should happen within the next four to five years from our perspective.”

The company plans to achieve this through its recent listing on the Nasdaq exchange, which followed its merger with a US-based company in a landmark deal valued at approximately $609 million.

The listing has positioned Namib Minerals to access vital capital for reinvestment and expansion.

Alongside its green metals ambitions, Namib Minerals plans to imminently restart operations at its two non-operational gold mines in Zimbabwe: Mazowe Gold Mine and Redwing Mine, both situated in the prolific Harare greenstone belt.

With support from Hennessy Capital and its strategic Nasdaq listing, Namib Minerals is well positioned to lead in both traditional gold mining and emerging green metals markets, aligning itself with global trends toward sustainable and clean energy resources.

Investors are closely watching Namib’s transformation, which could redefine its role in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and the broader green metals industry over the coming half-decade.

Despite its efforts to reduce environmental impact and increase energy self-sufficiency, gold-focused mining company Caledonia Mining Corporation has recorded a sharp increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2024, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The company’s latest ESG Report, released last month, reveals the complex balancing act of maintaining production in Zimbabwe’s energy-challenged environment while pursuing sustainability goals.

Caledonia, which operates the iconic Blanket Mine in Gwanda, Matabeleland South, reported a 43% surge in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions in 2024. This increase is largely tied to the company’s reliance on coal-generated electricity following the commissioning of a power plant in Hwange. While this development has improved energy reliability for mining operations, it has also contributed to a heavier carbon footprint.

The Coal Dilemma vs. the Solar Promise

While the coal power shift impacted emission metrics, Caledonia’s move to invest in renewable energy must not be overlooked. Its 12.2 MWac solar power plant, commissioned in November 2022, continues to provide critical clean energy to Blanket Mine. According to Caledonia, the solar plant now powers approximately 27% of the mine’s average daily electricity demand. This has significantly cut the mine’s dependence on diesel generators, reducing monthly diesel usage from 120,000 litres to just 18,000 litres.

In terms of performance, the solar plant has generated more than 47,350 MWh of clean energy since its commissioning. This output has not only reduced diesel-related emissions but also stabilised operations and minimised production interruptions. The improvement in grid power further enhanced the mine’s overall energy reliability.

From a financial perspective, Caledonia made a strategic decision to sell the solar plant in 2024 for US$22.35 million—realising a solid return on its original US$14.3 million investment. Importantly, Caledonia has retained an exclusive power off-take agreement, ensuring that Blanket Mine continues to benefit from clean, affordable solar energy without owning the asset outright. This move reflects a savvy blend of financial prudence and energy security.

Sustainability Goals and Public Expectations

Despite these green milestones, the jump in GHG emissions signals that there is still work to be done. The company’s transparency in reporting this spike is commendable, but it is clear that stakeholders—from environmental analysts to local communities—will want more detail on mitigation plans going forward. There is no denying that Caledonia is trying to build a sustainable operation, but efforts must now accelerate to reverse the emissions trend recorded in 2024.

The company has not yet committed to specific emissions reduction targets or outlined a formal carbon offsetting programme, which are now considered standard among environmentally conscious global miners. With Blanket Mine being one of Zimbabwe’s most visible and respected operations, Caledonia sits at the intersection of scrutiny and leadership.

Community Impact and Broader ESG Progress

Caledonia continues to lead in areas beyond just energy. The company maintains robust corporate social responsibility programmes, including support for education, healthcare, and local infrastructure in the Gwanda area. Blanket Mine’s presence has long supported livelihoods in Matabeleland South, and Caledonia’s ESG framework continues to emphasise shared value and long-term development.

Caledonia’s governance approach is also a benchmark for local operators. The company’s board and management team promote transparency, diversity, and international reporting standards—factors that have helped secure investor confidence on the London, New York, and Victoria Falls stock exchanges.

Turning a Strong Foundation into Greener Outcomes

Caledonia Mining’s 2024 ESG report presents a company that is honest about its setbacks and bold in its solutions. The rise in emissions—though concerning—is not the full story. The solar plant, which continues to supply over a quarter of Blanket Mine’s daily power, stands as proof that cleaner, locally generated energy is both viable and economically sound in Zimbabwe.

With the diesel cutback, improved production stability, and a profitable solar divestment that retains energy access, Caledonia is showing that green innovation can align with strong business strategy. What the company must do next is turn this momentum into measurable climate commitments: emissions targets, expanded renewable adoption, and defined pathways to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

In a mining environment where few firms are as transparent or forward-looking, Caledonia still holds its place as a leader. But leadership in the climate era demands more than good intentions—it demands action. And with a solid foundation already in place, the time for that action is now.