Mining ZimbabweLatest Mining News, Policy and Industry Updates

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.

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – June 26, 2025. Police in Bulawayo have launched a manhunt for three armed suspects who staged a daring robbery at Old Nic Mine on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, making off with a substantial amount of cash.

In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, saying,

“Police in Bulawayo are investigating a robbery case which occurred at Old Nic Mine on 25/06/25, where three unknown suspects, who were armed with pistols, pounced on the company’s offices and attacked three complainants who were present. The suspects stole USD520,000 and two cell phones.” said the Police in  statement.

The suspects, who are still at large, reportedly stormed the mine’s offices armed with pistols before assaulting the victims and fleeing with the stolen items. No fatalities have been reported.

Authorities say investigations are underway and urged anyone with information to come forward.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will release more detailed information regarding this case tomorrow,” the statement added.

The incident has raised serious concerns over security at mining operations, which often handle large amounts of cash for operational expenses.

More updates to follow as the story develops…

The Minister of State for Mashonaland West Province, Marian Chombo, has challenged government departments and local authorities to adopt a results-driven mindset aligned with the President’s Vision 2030, as the province welcomes a major investment from pan-African mining company, Bravura, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement with Bravura Mining and Resources, which is set to establish operations in Zvimba and Chegutu districts, Chombo emphasized the need for government officials to implement the national vision with urgency and efficiency.

“You must adopt the President’s vision because he has set a clear direction for Zimbabwe to become an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. As implementers, your role is to make sure that vision becomes a reality. When mining giants like Bravura come forward and say they need certain things to progress, your job is to ensure those things are done without delay,” she said.

Her remarks underscore the government’s commitment to rural industrialisation, a pillar of Vision 2030, which continues to gain momentum through private sector participation in resource-driven districts. Bravura’s entry into Mashonaland West is expected to significantly contribute to economic decentralisation, job creation, and infrastructure development.

Bravura Holdings Zimbabwe Managing Director, Mr. Gbenga Ojo, confirmed during the engagement that the company has completed feasibility studies for its platinum project and is now entering the developmental phase.

“We are a mining conglomerate, and we are pan-African with a footprint in about fourteen African countries. As a business, we are committed to ensuring that we have a viable project in the years to come. And already, we’ve invested heavily in the project, having completed our feasibility study and our exploration work, and we are currently at the developmental phase,” said Ojo.

Though the company did not disclose project timelines or job estimates, Ojo assured stakeholders that Bravura was sensitive to community needs and had established a solid corporate social responsibility framework to guide local empowerment.

“In terms of our social responsibility, we’ve made our commitment to the Minister that everywhere we operate as a business, we are Africans, and so we understand the needs of Africa. We play in the terrain of Africa, so everywhere we operate in Africa, we are mindful of the need to invest heavily in the well-being of our people. Already, as a business, what we have done is to ensure that our staff strength is ninety-five percent locals, just to show our demonstration that we are committed to investing in the locals and uplifting the people,” he said.

The long-awaited Mines and Minerals Bill (H.B. 1, 2025) has officially been gazetted, marking the latest chapter in Zimbabwe’s drawn-out journey to reform its colonial-era mining legislation, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Published in today’s Government Gazette by Clerk of Parliament K. M. Chokuda, the Bill is being introduced in terms of Standing Order No. 142(1) of the National Assembly. The development is significant as Zimbabwe’s mining industry—key to the country’s economy—continues to operate under the outdated Mines and Minerals Act of 1961, which stakeholders have for years described as unfit for the current socio-economic and environmental context.

This is not the first time the Mines and Minerals Bill has been gazetted. Over the past decade, several versions have been tabled, debated, and shelved—either lapsing in Parliament or stalling before receiving Presidential assent. This has fuelled uncertainty in the mining sector, especially among investors seeking a consistent and transparent legal framework.

What the 2025 Mines Bill Seeks to Address

The newly gazetted Bill proposes to:

• Replace the Mines and Minerals Act [Chapter 21:05] with a more modern framework aligned with national development goals.
• Establish a Mining Affairs Board to guide decision-making processes.
• Introduce clearer rules on mining title management, particularly in terms of cadastre and exploration rights.
• Strengthen environmental compliance and land rehabilitation obligations.
• Improve governance through transparency and accountability mechanisms in the allocation of mining rights.
• Define and protect community rights, including benefit-sharing and land access protocols.
• Address concerns about exclusive prospecting orders (EPOs) and introduce frameworks that enable small-scale and artisanal miners to be formally recognised and supported.
• Align the mining law with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and other international obligations, particularly in the extractives sector.

While the Bill appears comprehensive, stakeholders are expected to scrutinise it heavily, especially in light of past concerns that previous versions lacked adequate provisions on resource nationalism, community participation, and state equity in major mining operations.

Will This Be the Final Push?

Despite having gone through various iterations under different Ministers of Mines and multiple parliamentary sessions, the Mines Bill has yet to be signed into law by the President. Its continued failure to cross the final legal threshold has drawn criticism from civil society, miners, and lawmakers alike, who argue that its passage is crucial to unlocking the full potential of Zimbabwe’s US$12 billion mining economy.

As the latest version of the Bill enters the parliamentary process, hopes are high but cautious. The big question remains: Will this be the year the Mines and Minerals Bill finally becomes law?

From pegging new claims to guiding production underground, surveying remains the heartbeat of Zimbabwe’s mining sector. No shaft is sunk, no ore is blasted, and no plan is implemented without the critical input of a mine surveyor.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

As Zimbabwe intensifies its push for greater mining sector efficiency and order, the importance of mine surveying has come into sharper focus—technically, legally, and economically.

Surveyors are no longer just line-markers or underground mappers. They are now integrated data specialists, helping mines navigate the intersection of geology, engineering, compliance, and production. From exploration through to mine closure, every stage of the mining lifecycle relies on the precision and oversight of trained surveyors.

“Without surveying, there is no mine. You can’t mine what you haven’t measured, and you certainly can’t plan what you can’t map accurately,” said a senior mine planning engineer during a recent Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) technical visit.

Why Surveying is Central to the Mining Value Chain

Zimbabwe’s mining sector continues to evolve, but at the centre of every successful operation is a survey-controlled process. Here’s how:

• Pegging and Licensing: The first step of any mining venture begins with pegging. Mine surveyors define and secure the physical extent of a mining claim, ensuring legal title is backed by precise, professional mapping.

• Exploration and Resource Modelling: Working alongside geologists, mine surveyors assist in accurate drill positioning and 3D mapping of ore bodies, which informs resource classification and investor reporting.

• Mine Planning: Survey data feeds directly into open-pit and underground designs. Surveyors help determine how much ore can be mined, how safely, and over what timeframe.

• Production and Monitoring: On a daily basis, surveyors track volumes moved, ore extracted, and stope progression, ensuring production targets are met and reconciled with plans.

• Compliance and Safety: From blasting clearance to dump placement, mine surveyors ensure operations stay within legal boundaries, avoid encroachment, and support environmental and safety standards.

• Closure and Rehabilitation: When the mining ends, it’s the survey department that validates volumes mined, facilitates closure planning, and provides data for rehabilitation and compliance audits.

Policy Shift: Handheld GPS Banned in Favour of Survey-Grade Instruments

Recognising the central role of surveying, and the damage caused by inaccurate data, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development recently moved to ban the use of handheld GPS devices for capturing mine coordinates.

In a General Notice issued in June 2025, the Provincial Mining Director for Midlands instructed that all mining title holders must submit coordinates captured using survey-grade instruments, under the supervision of registered mine surveyors, starting 1 July 2025.

“Handheld GPS is a navigation tool, not a survey instrument. It has an error margin of up to 5 metres, which is completely unacceptable in high-stakes boundary work.”

This move follows years of disputes caused by overlapping claims, illegal pegging, and title inaccuracies—most of which stemmed from reliance on imprecise handheld tools. While a fully operational digital cadastre system is yet to be implemented in Zimbabwe, the government’s push for professionalised coordinate submission is a foundational step toward its success.

Students and Innovation: The Future of Surveying is Already Here

During a recent AMSZ technical visit to Blanket Mine in Gwanda, the association’s Secretary General Takunda Paul Mubaiwa said students and young professionals will shape the future of mine surveying in Zimbabwe. He called on students across universities and polytechnics to join the association, saying it opens access to real-world knowledge, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

“Surveyors are no longer just underground workers. They are data scientists, consultants, even hardware and software developers,” Mubaiwa said. “We encourage students to think beyond the diploma.”

He emphasised that surveyors are now expected to not only capture data, but also process and interpret it in ways that drive decision-making—linking their work directly to production, revenue, and profitability.

The Case for Respecting Survey Work

Surveying has historically been treated as a support service in mining. But that perception is changing. As Zimbabwe moves to modernise and formalise its mining sector, surveying is now a core operational and strategic function.

• It underpins legal title security

• It drives investor confidence through reliable data

• It supports cost control by linking inputs to outputs

• It enables mine safety and environmental compliance

• It is key to building a functional mining cadastre system

AMSZ is also advocating for the broader use of modern survey software like Deswik, already in use at Blanket Mine, which allows multi-departmental integration of planning, geology, and survey data.

Surveying is Not Optional, It’s Foundational

Zimbabwe’s mining ambitions—from $12 billion sector targets to greenfield lithium developments—depend on accurate, verifiable spatial data. That means surveying must take its rightful place as a profession of high responsibility, governed by standards, and supported by legislation.

“Surveying is the heart of a mine. Everything starts and ends with a coordinate, and only professionals should handle that responsibility,” Mubaiwa said.

As the government enforces accuracy, and the industry embraces digital transformation, surveyors are poised to lead Zimbabwe’s next mining chapter—with precision, professionalism, and pride.