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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 27 January 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 27 January 2025

These are the official gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 27 January 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$84.36/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$83.47g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$82.58/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$81.68/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$80.34/g

Fire Assay CASH $84.81/g

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100gs, no sample is deducted.
For the Fire Assay Transfer price, a sample of not more than 10g is deducted
A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners)
A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers

Cash available. Fidelity Gold Refinery prices will be changing daily to match the world market.

Lithium in Zimbabwe: Recovery Ahead, but Benefits to Locals Remain Limited

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Lithium in Zimbabwe: Recovery Ahead, but Benefits to Locals Remain Limited

After years of remarkable growth, 2024 was a disappointing year for the global electric vehicle (EV) industry, leading to a significant slowdown in global lithium demand.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

However, projections for 2025 suggest a recovery is on the horizon, driven largely by renewed interest in EVs, particularly in China. Yet, as the world prepares for a rebound in lithium demand, Zimbabwe’s role as a critical supplier remains under scrutiny, with the benefits to the local economy still in question.

Globally, lithium prices suffered a dramatic fall in 2024, declining by as much as 80% from their peak. The oversupply of lithium, particularly from Australia and China, compounded the issue, forcing some higher-cost miners to reduce output. Looking ahead, demand is expected to increase by 26% to 1.46 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) in 2025, driven by growth in the EV sector, particularly in China, where EVs now represent more than half of all vehicle sales. The rise in energy storage systems (ESS) is also expected to play a significant role in driving demand for lithium.

For Zimbabwe, one of the world’s emerging lithium producers, this global recovery presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Zimbabwe is home to significant lithium reserves, yet the country continues to face challenges in ensuring that its lithium industry benefits the local economy. While Zimbabwe has attracted significant foreign investment, particularly from Chinese companies, concerns have been raised about the lack of local participation in the sector.

The Problem of External Benefits

Many lithium mining operations in Zimbabwe, such as Bikita Minerals, have been criticised for benefiting foreign entities rather than the local economy. Bikita Minerals, one of the country’s most significant lithium producers, has been accused of relying heavily on Mozambique-based contractors. The sight of Mozambique-registered trucks transporting lithium out of Zimbabwe highlights a larger issue: the proceeds from Zimbabwe’s lithium are leaving the country, often to Chinese companies based in Mozambique. Additionally, most contractors working at these mines are Chinese, leaving little room for local employment and skills transfer.

Similarly, Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), owned by Huayou Cobalt, a Chinese battery manufacturing giant, is another example of foreign dominance in the sector. PLZ controls the entire value chain, from extraction to battery manufacturing, meaning it essentially sells the lithium it mines to itself. This vertical integration allows Huayou to maximize profits while Zimbabwean companies and the local economy are left with crumbs. The lack of local ownership in the industry prevents Zimbabwe from reaping the full rewards of its lithium sector, especially as global demand for the mineral rises.

One operation that stands out for its relatively neutral approach is Kamativi Mining Company. Unlike other lithium miners in Zimbabwe, Kamativi has taken steps to avoid selling lithium to its own affiliated companies, instead working with external players such as Tesla to produce batteries. This approach has allowed Kamativi to position itself as a more transparent and independent player in Zimbabwe’s lithium industry. However, despite this neutrality, Kamativi still faces criticism for its reliance on Chinese workers, with the majority of skilled positions filled by foreigners. The issue of skills transfer remains a major challenge, as local Zimbabweans are often left out of the more technical roles.

The Path Forward

Despite these challenges, there is optimism that Zimbabwe’s lithium sector will grow alongside global demand. As EV production ramps up, particularly in China, Zimbabwe is poised to play a critical role in supplying the lithium required for batteries. However, for this growth to truly benefit Zimbabwe, there must be a concerted effort to ensure that more of the value chain remains within the country. This includes increasing local employment, fostering skills transfer, and developing local lithium processing facilities.

The recovery of global lithium prices in 2025 could provide Zimbabwe with an opportunity to renegotiate terms with foreign investors and push for more local involvement. As companies such as Tesla seek stable, long-term lithium suppliers, Zimbabwe could leverage its position to demand more from foreign companies operating within its borders.

As the global lithium market recovers in 2025, Zimbabwe’s potential to become a leading player in the sector is clear. However, the benefits to the local economy remain limited due to the dominance of foreign companies and a lack of local involvement in the industry. To truly capitalise on the lithium boom, Zimbabwe must focus on increasing local participation, ensuring that the wealth generated by its lithium reserves benefits the country and its people. The road ahead for Zimbabwe’s lithium industry is promising, but only if the necessary steps are taken to ensure that Zimbabweans are not left behind as the world shifts to greener energy solutions.

Fidelity to Establish Custom Elution Service Centres to Boost Gold Deliveries

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Fidelity to Establish Custom Elution Service Centres to Boost Gold Deliveries

The country’s sole gold buyer and exporter, Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR), has announced plans to establish custom elution service centres, starting in Mberengwa, to increase gold deliveries from artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) as part of its broader strategy to support ASM and enhance gold production in Zimbabwe, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking at the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) 2025 strategic meeting on Friday, FGR General Manager Peter Magaramombe revealed that Fidelity’s goal for 2025 is to ramp up its support to ASM miners, who have been a key driver of the country’s gold production. He explained that the new elution service centres will be a significant step toward achieving this objective.

Magaramombe emphasized that Fidelity is committed to providing the necessary equipment and incentives to encourage consistent gold deliveries.

“We will support miners by providing equipment such as compressors, generators, hammer mills, and other essential tools,” he said.

Fidelity is also working on setting up custom elution service centres to serve miners in multiple regions, starting with Mberengwa, Ngundu, Kadoma, and Makaha.

“Another strategy is the establishment of custom elution service centres. Fidelity will create one-stop custom elution service centres, starting with locations in Mberengwa, Ngundu, Kadoma, and Makaha. The number of these centres will increase annually,” said Magaramombe.

He explained that these centres would streamline operations for miners, offering services such as assaying, chemical supplies, elution, and gold purchasing, all under one roof. The idea is to reduce risks associated with gold loss during transportation and increase the efficiency of gold processing and purchasing.

In addition to the operational advantages, Magaramombe stated that training programs would offer Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives to enhance capacity.

“We will offer training to artisanal and small-scale miners on responsible mining, safety, health, and environmental management. We will also consult with miners to ensure that the training is relevant to their needs,” he added.

The FGR General Manager stressed the importance of these initiatives, not only to boost production but also to ensure safe and responsible mining practices across Zimbabwe.

Furthermore, Fidelity plans to expand its network of gold-buying centres to facilitate faster payments to miners. Magaramombe noted that the number of gold-buying centres will increase from 17 to 25 in 2025. He assured miners that they would continue to receive timely payments and that banking facilities would be set up to ensure a smooth process.

Magaramombe concluded by reiterating Fidelity’s commitment to growing Zimbabwe’s gold production and ensuring that ASM miners receive the necessary support to operate efficiently and safely.

These new developments underscore Fidelity’s strategic role in the country’s gold sector as it works to boost ASM participation and overall gold output in 2025.

Gold deliveries in 2024 were 36.48 tonnes, a notable increase from the 31.9 tonnes recorded in 2023. This marks an approximate 14% increase in gold deliveries year-on-year, driven primarily by the efforts of small-scale miners, who contributed the bulk of the country’s gold output. ASM miners delivered 23.7 tonnes in 2024, up from 18.7 tonnes in 2023, reflecting a strong performance in the sector.

ZMF renews Calls for Ban on Foreigners in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining

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ZMF renews Calls for Ban on Foreigners in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining

The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has urged a ban on foreign participation in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM), stating that foreign investors with claims smaller than 50 hectares should no longer operate in the sector. This proposal is part of ZMF’s broader push to empower local miners and ensure Zimbabweans reap the benefits of the nation’s mineral wealth.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking at the ZMF Strategic Meeting 2025, ZMF President Ms. Henrietta Rushwaya emphasized that Zimbabwe’s resources should benefit locals. She stated, “If an investor’s claim is less than 50 hectares, they cannot call themselves an investor. They must pack their bags and go. This is our country, and we will not tolerate foreigners fighting with us over small pieces of land.”

Rushwaya highlighted discontent over foreign exploitation in ASM, arguing that Zimbabweans should dominate the sector, which is crucial to the country’s gold production.

ZMF aims for 40 tonnes of gold deliveries in 2025, up from the 24 tonnes ASM produced last year. In 2024, ASM contributed 23.7 tonnes to Zimbabwe’s total of 36.48 tonnes, showcasing its vital role in the economy.

Rushwaya praised Fidelity Gold Refiners (FGR) for supporting ASM miners and increasing gold deliveries. She also revealed that ZMF has requested a meeting with the Minister of Mines to address foreign companies’ conduct, emphasizing, “The law should apply equally to all.”

She called for stricter regulations to ensure foreign investors follow ethical practices and benefit the local economy. Rushwaya celebrated the gold sector’s significant economic contribution, noting it generated an estimated $2.8 billion in 2024.

Looking ahead, she encouraged miners to strive for higher production and ethical practices, highlighting their growing role in economic and community leadership.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 25 January 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 25 January 2025

These are the official gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 25 January 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$84.36/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$83.47g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$82.58/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$81.68/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$80.34/g

Fire Assay CASH $84.81/g

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100gs, no sample is deducted.
For the Fire Assay Transfer price, a sample of not more than 10g is deducted
A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners)
A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers

Cash available. Fidelity Gold Refinery prices will be changing daily to match the world market.

“Enough is Enough” – ZMF Declares War on Foreign Miners Abusing workers

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“Enough is Enough” – ZMF Declares War on Foreign Miners Abusing workers

The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has announced plans to engage with the government to address the conduct of foreign miners, particularly regarding the ongoing abuse faced by local miners, especially within the small-scale mining sector.

By Ryan Chigoche

This move follows growing concerns about the exploitation of local miners by foreign companies, particularly those from China, operating within the small-scale mining industry. One such incident involved a Chinese national allegedly pointing a pistol at an employee during a dispute—a troubling example of the ongoing mistreatment of locals by foreign nationals in the sector.

During the ZMF 2025 Strategic Meeting on gold held in the capital, Henrietta Rushwaya, president of the federation, emphasized the need for a decisive stand against the abusive behaviour exhibited by foreign nationals in Zimbabwe’s mining industry.

“We have seen instances of abuse within our sector, both from our own members and so-called investors. This abuse must stop. We are tired of seeing our people mistreated by foreigners while we fold our hands. This is unacceptable, and we are making our position clear: enough is enough. Abuse from investors must come to an end. Gone are the days when a certain race is considered superior to another. Why are foreigners coming in to fight us over two hectares of land? They must be chased away,” Rushwaya stated.

She further emphasized that any investment claims under 50 hectares should not be regarded as legitimate.

“We are now saying that if an investor’s claim is less than 50 hectares, they cannot call themselves an investor. They must pack their bags and go. This is our country, and we will not tolerate foreigners fighting with us over small pieces of land,” she added.

Rushwaya also revealed that the ZMF has formally requested a meeting with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to discuss the ongoing issues.

“About two days ago, we made a special request to the Minister of Mines and Mining Development. We requested a special meeting to address the conduct of foreign companies and individuals mining in Zimbabwe. There are no sacred cows in this country. The law should apply equally to all. Let us continue to uphold these principles as we move forward into a prosperous 2025,” she said.

Despite widespread reports on social media, no foreign nationals have yet been jailed in cases of abuse, leaving locals feeling marginalized in their own country.

The ZMF has long advocated for a policy reserving mining rights for locals on plots of up to 50 hectares, particularly in response to the influx of foreigners into the sector.

However, Chinese interests in Zimbabwe’s small-scale mining industry continue to enjoy protection due to powerful political connections.

Chinese companies in the small-scale mining sector have faced accusations of riverbed mining and land grabs, particularly in the chrome sector, where they allegedly pushed local miners off prime mining areas.

“We must approach the authorities to address the issue of mine grabs and the name-dropping of politically connected elites who continue mining on rivers. Small-scale miners are not the chief culprits in riverbed mining, and we cannot afford to let this practice continue,” Rushwaya added.

In recent weeks, anti-Chinese sentiment has been on the rise across several African nations, with protests and violent incidents reported. In countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique, locals have targeted Chinese nationals, frustrated by their involvement in illegal mining and the appropriation of businesses reserved for locals, alongside contributing to massive environmental degradation.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 January 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 January 2025

These are the official gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 24 January 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$83.37/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$82.49g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$81.61/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$80.73/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$79.40/g

Fire Assay CASH $83.81/g

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100gs, no sample is deducted.
For the Fire Assay Transfer price, a sample of not more than 10g is deducted
A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners)
A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers

Cash available. Fidelity Gold Refinery prices will be changing daily to match the world market.

CNRG Slams $2,000 Compensation for Worker’s Death at Chinese-Owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Mine

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CNRG Slams $2,000 Compensation for Worker’s Death at Chinese-Owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Mine

The Center for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), a research, advocacy, and civic society organization, has slammed the inadequate compensation offered to the family of Taurai Dozva, a mine worker who tragically died while on duty at the Chinese-owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Gold Mine in Old Mutare.

By Ryan Chigoche

The incident, which sparked public outrage, occurred on January 10, 2025, when 39-year-old Taurai Dozva, who worked as a spotter, was struck by a 40-tonne tipper truck while directing the movement of heavy vehicles. His death left his wife, Modester Samunda, and their three children, the youngest of whom is just nine months old, devastated.

However, what followed has only deepened the tragedy. The company’s response has raised serious concerns over the exploitation and mistreatment of local workers by Chinese-owned operations in Zimbabwe.

Initially, the company provided $3,500 for burial expenses but then offered a meagre $2,000 as final compensation to the grieving family. According to CNRG, Dozva’s family was allegedly coerced into accepting the $2,000 despite their objections. They were forced to sign a document under duress, acknowledging the amount as “sufficient compensation,” which only added to their distress.

“The company’s actions reflect a wider pattern of unfair and derogatory treatment faced by local workers in Chinese-owned mines across Zimbabwe,” said CNRG in a statement. “The family of Taurai Dozva is now left without their primary breadwinner, struggling with the emotional and financial burden of his death while being exploited by an employer that shows no respect for their dignity.”

CNRG strongly condemned the $2,000 compensation, calling it grossly inadequate, particularly given Dozva’s role as the sole provider for his family. They are calling for a more appropriate compensation amount of $20,000, arguing that this would better reflect the financial and emotional toll of his death on his family.

“This tragedy underscores a recurring issue of exploitation within the Chinese-owned mining sector in Zimbabwe,” the statement continued. “The disregard for local workers’ safety and well-being has gone unchecked for far too long. The company must be held accountable for its actions, and the government must take immediate steps to enforce stronger labour laws and regulations.”

In addition to the issue of compensation, CNRG highlighted the mining company’s insufficient safety standards, which they believe directly contributed to the fatal accident.

Mining Indaba 2025: Paving the Way for Africa’s Sustainable Mining Future

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Mining Indaba 2025: Paving the Way for Africa’s Sustainable Mining Future

The upcoming Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town promises to be a game-changer for Africa’s mining sector. This premier event will bring together government leaders, industry heavyweights, and key players in the mining value chain to shape a sustainable future for the continent’s mineral wealth.

By Ryan Chigoche

This year’s Ministerial Symposium, set for February 2, 2025, is exclusively by invitation and revolves around the theme “Building a Unified African Mining Value Chain: Enhancing Best Practice.” The gathering will tackle pressing challenges in Africa’s mining industry, with a focus on solutions that drive local economic growth, foster collaboration, and maximize the continent’s resource potential.

Africa’s Mining Moment

Africa sits on a treasure trove of mineral wealth, hosting over 30% of the world’s mineral reserves. From cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo powering electric vehicles to lithium in Zimbabwe and platinum in South Africa fueling clean energy technologies, the continent holds the keys to the global green energy revolution.

Yet, Africa remains largely a supplier of raw minerals, losing out on the economic advantages that come from processing and adding value locally. The Ministerial Symposium aims to flip this narrative, transforming Africa from a raw materials exporter into a leader in value addition, creating jobs, boosting industrialization, and strengthening economies.

Setting the Stage for Collaboration

The symposium will feature UN-style breakout sessions, where ministers and industry leaders can delve into the nuts and bolts of creating an efficient and sustainable mining ecosystem. Topics like streamlining permitting processes, promoting domestic mineral processing, and ensuring community benefits will take centre stage.

One key focus will be addressing bureaucratic bottlenecks. Delays in issuing mining permits have stifled investment and slowed development across the continent. By exploring more transparent and efficient regulatory frameworks, participants aim to create an environment where projects can move forward swiftly, attracting investors and unlocking Africa’s full mineral potential.

Another crucial issue is resource stewardship. African leaders are expected to discuss how to manage the continent’s mineral wealth responsibly, ensuring that mining benefits local communities and protects the environment. Striking a balance between development and sustainability will be vital to achieving long-term growth.

Unlocking Value at Home

A recurring theme of the symposium will be the need to prioritize domestic mineral processing. While countries like South Africa have made strides in beneficiation, most African nations still export the majority of their raw minerals, with up to 70% sent to Europe and Asia for processing. This means much of the value is captured outside the continent.

Some nations are already taking bold steps to reverse this trend. Zimbabwe, for example, has banned the export of unprocessed lithium, and Namibia has implemented similar measures. Ghana’s Green Minerals Policy also prohibits exporting raw minerals to stimulate local industries.

However, the road ahead isn’t without challenges. Building robust processing infrastructure and creating supportive policies are critical to reaping the benefits of these initiatives. The symposium will explore ways to attract investments in infrastructure and foster partnerships that empower local businesses in the mining sector.

Shaping Africa’s Mining Future

The Ministerial Symposium isn’t just about solving today’s problems—it’s about preparing Africa’s mining industry for the future. With demand for critical minerals skyrocketing, the continent has a unique opportunity to lead the global shift toward green energy.

By focusing on local value chains, sustainable practices, and greater economic inclusion, African nations can transform their mineral wealth into a springboard for economic prosperity. This year’s Mining Indaba provides the perfect platform for governments, industry players, and investors to align their visions and strategies.

As Ms Rushwaya, President of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation, aptly puts it: “We cannot achieve our goals alone. It’s through working together that we can overcome the challenges and create a prosperous future for Africa.”

Mining Indaba 2025 is more than an event, it’s a rallying cry for Africa to take charge of its destiny, redefine its role in global supply chains, and ensure its resources benefit future generations.

Another Man Shot by a Chinese National

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Another Man Shot by a Chinese National
A Filabusi young man aged 20, was shot by a Chinese national for allegedly stealing gold dump at Binyup 5 Mine in Filabusi on Wednesday, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
According to Zimbabwe Republic Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the Chinese national who shot Mthandazo Sibanda has since been arrested, and further investigations into the incident are underway.
Sibanda was shot with a 9mm Derya Pistol by the Chinese national while reportedly attempting to steal gold ore from the mine site on January 22, 2025.
Commissioner Nyathi confirmed the arrest of the Chinese national, stating that police are conducting an in-depth investigation into the matter.
“As investigations progress, more details will be released,” Nyathi said in a brief statement.
This incident has sparked concern in the local community, as relations between Chinese investors and Zimbabwean workers have been under scrutiny in recent years due to several similar incidents involving violence and labour disputes.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates in the coming days as they piece together what transpired at the mine.
This is a developing story, and Mining Zimbabwe will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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