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Zimasco Seeks to Block Alleged Takeover Attempt

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Zimasco Seeks to Block Alleged Takeover Attempt

Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd has initiated legal proceedings to challenge what it alleges is an attempt by Kwekwe businessman Shepard Tundiya, through his company Avim Investments, to gain control of the mining company, Mining Zimbabwe has learned.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

This follows a recent High Court order obtained by Avim Investments, which, could facilitate a change in control of one of Zimbabwe’s largest chromite ore smelting companies. However, Zimasco contends that the order, issued by High Court Judge Joel Mambara, pertains to Sinosteel Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd, an entity it claims is legally distinct from Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd.

According to individuals with knowledge of the matter, Tundiya, along with associates Wilson Manase and businessman Denny Marandure, reportedly sought to access Zimasco’s Ecobank accounts on March 17, instructing the bank to change signatories. However, Ecobank is said to have declined, allegedly citing that the court order did not apply to Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd and had not been served to the correct entity.

Following this, it is further alleged that the group visited Zimasco’s head office, asserting they had legal authority to assume control of the company’s management. Zimasco’s management reportedly disputed the claim, maintaining that the court order applied only to Sinosteel Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd.

Legal representatives for Avim Investments, Kwande Legal Practitioners, subsequently sought a court ruling to clarify that Sinosteel Zimasco and Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd were the same entity, sources indicate. Justice Mambara granted this application; however, Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd contends it was not notified or served with legal documents prior to the ruling.

Despite the amended court order, Ecobank allegedly continued to withhold access to the accounts, maintaining its position that the order did not apply to Zimasco (Pvt) Ltd.

In response, Zimasco has filed an urgent High Court application challenging what it describes as an unlawful takeover attempt. Additionally, the company has reportedly submitted formal complaints to the Judicial Service Commission and the Law Society of Zimbabwe regarding the handling of the case.

Meanwhile, diplomatic sources indicate that the Chinese Embassy in Harare has expressed concern over the developments, citing Zimasco’s status as a key Chinese investment. Reports suggest the embassy has urged the Zimbabwean government to ensure that investments are safeguarded under the Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement between China and Zimbabwe.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 March 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 March 2025

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

SG 90% and ABOVE US$91.56/g
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$90.59/g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$89.62/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$88.65/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$87.20/g

Fire Assay CASH $92.04/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

Interested in Investing in Zimbabwe’s minerals? The country’s marketing agent sheds light

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Interested in Investing in Zimbabwe’s minerals? The country’s marketing agent sheds light

As the sole marketing agent for the country’s minerals (excluding gold and silver), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) plays a pivotal role in promoting Zimbabwe’s mineral resources on the global stage.

Through strategic market development, international partnerships, and value-addition initiatives, MMCZ continues to position the nation as a key player in the global mining industry.

In this interview, the General Manager of MMCZ Dr Nomusa Jane Moyo sheds light on how the corporation is driving investment in Zimbabwe’s critical minerals, facilitating joint ventures, and ensuring that the mining sector aligns with international trends in sustainability and value addition. With a recent 19% surge in mineral sales and increasing interest in Zimbabwe’s lithium, platinum, and other strategic minerals, MMCZ remains committed to fostering a thriving mining industry.

What role does MMCZ play in promoting Zimbabwe’s mineral resources to global investors, and how have these efforts evolved over the years?

As the designated sole agent for the marketing and selling of all Zimbabwean minerals (excluding silver and gold), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) plays a crucial role in promoting the nation’s mineral wealth. MMCZ has created a strong foothold of Zimbabwe minerals in the international arena through active engagement in international conferences and exhibitions and by actively developing new lucrative markets. This proactive approach has yielded tangible results, with a significant increase in sales volume. In 2024, MMCZ achieved a remarkable 19% surge in sales volume, reaching a total of 4,161,092Mt, a clear testament to the effectiveness of our marketing and market development efforts.

What unique opportunities do Zimbabwe’s critical minerals, such as lithium and platinum, present to international investors looking for sustainable mining projects?

Zimbabwean is endowed with a number of minerals most of which require value addition and beneficiation. Among such minerals are lithium and platinum which offer international investors huge opportunities in value addition and beneficiation. As the world shifts its focus towards green energy, Zimbabwe’s huge resource base in lithium and platinum, to mention just a few, is key for any future sustainable mining projects. In addition to investment opportunities along the mineral value chain, the critical minerals sector also brings investment opportunities in side linkages such as transportation and energy generation that are further required to ensure that the mining sector is fully covered in terms of infrastructure and energy requirements. As has been outlined by His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa at numerous platforms, Zimbabwe is open for business.

Zimbabwe boasts of a diverse mineral portfolio. Which minerals do you believe hold the greatest potential for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the next five years?

The global energy transition towards a zero-carbon future presents significant opportunities for foreign direct investment (FDI) in critical minerals. These minerals, essential for technologies like renewable energy and electric vehicles, include beryllium, natural graphite, manganese and rare earths, among others.

Can you elaborate on MMCZ’s initiatives to facilitate joint ventures or partnerships between local and international mining players?

MMCZ conducts various initiatives to facilitate joint ventures or partnerships between local and international mining players.

  • Information Sharing – MMCZ disseminates information on mining investment opportunities, project proposals and regulatory requirements at various regional and international mining investment conferences.
  • Lobbying for an Enabling Environment – MMCZ advocates for and supports policy reforms that simplify and streamline the processes for establishing and operating joint ventures or partnerships.
  • Capacity Building – The Corporation conducts and supports capacity-building initiatives for local small-scale mining professionals to enhance their skills and expertise in mining management, negotiations and joint venture management.

South Africans are interested in importing chrome from Zimbabwe, take us through the process of how they can do this.

Our customer onboarding process incorporates robust Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. To comply with KYC regulations, customers are required to submit a letter of intent, registration details, company profile, trading history, financial information, and attorney details, among others for due diligence purposes.

Potential customers can initiate inquiries through our accessible online platforms, and our sales team will respond within 24 hours. We facilitate the matching of customers with suitable suppliers based on their specific needs.

What message would you like to convey to international investors about the opportunities in Zimbabwe’s mining sector?

We are actively encouraging and inviting investors to participate in the entire value chain and maximize returns through the development of value-added industries within Zimbabwe, such as mineral beneficiation, processing and manufacturing. Our team is ready to provide you with the necessary information, guidance and support to facilitate your entry into the country’s mining sector. ZIMBABWE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS.

Chitando Urges Mining Sector to Leverage Swedish Expertise to Enhance Efficiency and Competitiveness

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Chitando Urges Mining Sector to Leverage Swedish Expertise to Enhance Efficiency and Competitiveness

The Minister of Mines and Mining Development has implored Zimbabwe’s mining sector to embrace innovation and strategic partnerships with Swedish companies to boost its global competitiveness, Mining Zimbabwe reports.

By Ryan Chigoche

He made these remarks while delivering his keynote address at the recently concluded Sweden-Zimbabwe Sustainability in Mining Expo, which brought together Swedish business leaders, policymakers, and Zimbabwean industry stakeholders.

Addressing delegates, Minister Winston Chitando emphasized the importance of leveraging Sweden’s expertise in mining technology and sustainability. He called for a focused effort to improve efficiency and strengthen Zimbabwe’s position in the international market.

As global standards evolve, Chitando stressed the need for mining companies to adopt cutting-edge solutions to stay competitive. He noted that to meet international demand for cost-effective and responsibly sourced minerals, Zimbabwean miners must align with global best practices. This will not only secure long-term investment but also ensure sustained growth for the sector.

Chitando further emphasized that for Zimbabwe to thrive in the global mining market, local companies must enhance their efficiency and competitiveness.

“Wherever you are mining, the bottom line is you have to compete internationally. The buyer, when he looks at platinum, he wants platinum. Whether it’s from Zimbabwe or from another country, he wants the platinum with the same characteristics at a competitive price. So it means mining companies have to be extremely competitive.”

“Sweden has managed to develop products and services that enhance efficiency and can be exported to other countries. For Zimbabwe’s mining sector, we are here to explore how we can harness some of these innovations to remain competitive and strengthen our foothold in the industry,” he said.

He further noted that while Zimbabwe is fortunate to have rich and competitive ore bodies, staying ahead in the global mining industry requires continuous improvements in technology and efficiency.

“We are fortunate as a country to have ore bodies that are competitive. But for us to maintain and expand our presence in the market, we must enhance our competitiveness through efficient extraction and technological advancements,” he added.

The event, focused on sustainable mining solutions tailored to Zimbabwe’s unique challenges, provided local stakeholders with the opportunity to explore advanced Swedish technologies that could drive efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Sweden, known for its innovative mining sector, has developed world-class solutions that Zimbabwean miners could adopt to modernize their operations and boost productivity.

For local industry players, the event presented a unique opportunity to learn from Swedish expertise and explore how these technologies could be adapted to Zimbabwe’s specific mining conditions. The discussions and collaborations that emerged from the event had the potential to drive meaningful change in the sector, helping mining companies align with global best practices while remaining economically viable.

Meanwhile, the event also highlighted innovative technical solutions aimed at reducing environmental and social impacts while addressing key policy issues from both Zimbabwean and Swedish perspectives. The expo fostered lasting partnerships for a more sustainable mining future, recognizing the sector’s crucial role in both the green transition and economic development.

Speaking at the event, Sweden’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Per Lindgärde, underscored Zimbabwe’s role in the global mining industry and the importance of sustainable growth.

“I believe we all recognize the mining sector’s importance for the green transition as well as for supporting economic development. In other words, increased mining is necessary for economic growth and for the green transition to happen. Zimbabwe is indeed a key player in the global mining industry. It possesses abundant critical minerals essential for the energy transition, such as platinum and lithium,” he said.

Lindgärde further emphasized that unlocking Zimbabwe’s full mining potential required robust infrastructure and strategic investments in technology.

“Realizing the full potential of Zimbabwe’s mining industry requires a robust and well-connected infrastructure network. The Swedish mining and mineral industry drives technological change and the green transition globally. Swedish companies can contribute to unlocking Zimbabwe’s potential through investments, advanced mining technologies, and sustainable practices,” he added.

Sweden has long been at the forefront of sustainable mining innovation, with industry giants such as Sandvik, Epiroc, Scania, Ericsson, and ABB leading the charge. These companies are renowned for their advancements in responsible resource extraction, environmental management, and digital transformation. Their expertise in integrating renewable energy, optimizing waste management, and improving operational efficiency has served as a model for Zimbabwean stakeholders looking to transition toward more sustainable mining practices.

The expo followed discussions initiated by the Swedish Embassy and business representatives during a visit to Johannesburg last year, where Zimbabwe was identified as a key player in the global mining sector.

With Sweden keen to strengthen business ties, particularly in mining technology and related industries, the event provided a platform for both countries to explore potential partnerships that could benefit Zimbabwe’s mining industry.

As global demand for responsibly sourced minerals continues to rise, Zimbabwean mining companies need to position themselves as competitive players by adopting modern technologies and improving efficiency. Strengthening ties with Sweden could provide the expertise and innovations needed to help Zimbabwean miners stay ahead in an increasingly competitive global market.

As Zimbabwe strives to modernize its mining sector and tackle pressing environmental and social concerns, embracing innovative solutions becomes more critical than ever. This exclusive networking event served as a key forum for fostering partnerships, sharing knowledge, and shaping the future of responsible mining in the country.

MRAZ Commissions Pan African Mines Rescue Team

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MRAZ Commissions Pan African Mines Rescue Team

In a significant step towards enhancing mine safety and emergency response in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, the Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe (MRAZ) has officially commissioned a new rescue team for Pan African Mines, marking a major boost for rescue operations in the northern region.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The commissioning of the Pan African Mines rescue team is expected to bolster the country’s overall mine rescue capabilities, particularly in the North Zone, where the availability of such teams has historically been limited.

Speaking during the commissioning, Anselm Mapako, the MRAZ North Zone Regional Coordinator, underscored the importance of this development.

“This commissioning has actually helped the association,” said Mapako. “The fact that Pan African Mines has more than one mine and also, in this zone, we were lacking in terms of mine rescue teams that are available for these operations. So, the commissioning of this team has added another one, which means the rescue operations are going to be much easier for the zone.”

Pan African Mines operates Ayrshire Mine and Muriel Mine within the region, and the introduction of their dedicated rescue team is seen as a much-needed reinforcement for the North Zone. With this addition, the region now has a greater capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to mining-related emergencies, safeguarding the lives of mine workers and minimizing risks in hazardous situations.

Mine rescue teams are critical to ensuring the safety of Zimbabwe’s miners, particularly in the event of disasters such as underground collapses, explosions, or hazardous gas leaks. These teams undergo specialized training in first aid, navigation, and emergency extraction techniques, allowing them to perform complex rescues under challenging conditions.

The MRAZ plays a pivotal role in coordinating and overseeing these teams across the country, ensuring that Zimbabwe remains prepared for mining emergencies. With the commissioning of the Pan African Mining rescue team, the North Zone now has stronger operational readiness and more resources to deploy in case of an incident.

This development is part of MRAZ’s broader mission to improve mine rescue preparedness across Zimbabwe. The association continues to work closely with mining companies to commission more teams, providing the necessary training, equipment, and support to maintain high safety standards in the mining industry.

As the mining sector continues to grow, so does the need for robust safety measures and rapid-response teams. The introduction of the Pan African Mines rescue team not only strengthens the North Zone’s ability to handle emergencies but also reflects Zimbabwe’s ongoing commitment to enhancing mine safety across the country.

With improved rescue capacity in place, the MRAZ remains focused on ensuring that all mining zones are equipped with adequate rescue resources, promoting the well-being of workers and furthering the development of safe mining practices in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe to Participate in International Mine Rescue Competitions After 30 Years

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Zimbabwe to Participate in International Mine Rescue Competitions After 30 Years

Zimbabwe is set to make its long-awaited return to the International Mine Rescue Competitions, marking a significant milestone for the country’s mining sector after a 30-year hiatus, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Zimbabwe will once again compete on the global stage, having last participated in Zambia in 1994. The Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe (MRAZ) has confirmed that the country will be sending a representative team to the upcoming competition, which is fittingly being held in Zambia, a nation with close mining ties to Zimbabwe.

Charles Ganduri, the MRAZ national coordinator, emphasized the importance of Zimbabwe’s return to the international mine rescue arena during the recent national competitions. “We are now going to be participating in the international competitions, and this year we are privileged that the competitions are being hosted by Zambia, which is just our neighbour,” said Ganduri. The event will highlight Zimbabwe’s renewed commitment to mine safety and rescue operations.

The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe is working tirelessly to finalize the team that will represent the nation, ensuring that Zimbabwe can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with leading mine rescue teams from around the world. Ganduri further mentioned that the official announcement of Zimbabwe’s representative team will be made during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for March 20, 2025.

Zimbabwe’s last foray into the international competition was in 1994, when Rio Tinto’s Renco Proto Team proudly represented the nation at the Konkola Copper Mine in Zambia. The team had earned their spot after emerging victorious in Zimbabwe’s national mine rescue competition earlier that year. The 1994 event remains a significant moment in the history of Zimbabwean mining, and the upcoming competition will mark the first time since then that the nation returns to the international mine rescue scene.

A historical article from Rio Tinto titled “Renco Proto Team Flies the Flag for Zimbabwe” highlights the accomplishments of the Renco Proto Team during the 1994 competition. The team, led by George Chihota (team manager) and supported by members Kevin Saba and David Madera, faced rigorous challenges during the event. These challenges included navigating broken terrain, driving, and repairing water pipelines underground at Konkola Copper Mine.

The Renco team had to make special preparations, particularly to handle deep water challenges. They competed in categories such as navigation, speed, team discipline, and operational procedures. According to Tim Cotton, the team’s quartermaster, they even packed their “swimming trunks,” anticipating the tough water-related tasks they would face during the competition.

After completing the gruelling challenges, the Renco team and their Zambian hosts celebrated at the Konkola Club, where individuals from both Renco and Konkola management were present. Among those mentioned were John Nixon, Killion Ukama, and Admore Matika, all of whom played pivotal roles in supporting the team.

The 1994 event not only demonstrated the capabilities of Zimbabwe’s mine rescue teams but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and regional cooperation between Zambia and Zimbabwe, two nations with deep mining traditions.

As Zimbabwe gears up for its return to the international mine rescue scene, the country’s mining community is filled with excitement and anticipation. The upcoming competition provides Zimbabwe with an invaluable opportunity to showcase the progress it has made in mine rescue technology, training, and strategy over the past three decades.

In addition, the competition offers a platform for Zimbabwe’s teams to exchange knowledge and experiences with their international counterparts, further improving the nation’s preparedness in handling mining-related emergencies.

As the country prepares to participate in the international mine rescue competitions in 2025, Zimbabwe’s mining sector is reminded of the long-standing tradition of excellence exemplified by the Renco Proto Team in 1994. There is a growing sense of pride as the nation readies itself to compete and, once again, fly the flag for Zimbabwe on the world stage.

Mount Darwin Man Fined for Illegal Riverbed Mining Amidst Government Crackdown

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Mount Darwin Man Fined for Illegal Riverbed Mining Amidst Government Crackdown

As Zimbabwe tightens its grip on illegal mining activities, a 38-year-old man, Simbarashe Chayambuka, from Mount Darwin, has been fined for engaging in riverbed mining, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Caught extracting minerals along the Fuse River, Chayambuka’s case reflects the broader challenges Zimbabwe faces in curbing environmental degradation caused by unauthorized mining.

Security guards from Ruia Mine apprehended Chayambuka on March 4, 2025, as he attempted to extract minerals using rudimentary tools. He was handed over to the CID Minerals, Flora, and Fauna Unit (MFFU) in Mount Darwin, where he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a US$200 fine, failing which he would face 60 days of imprisonment.

This incident comes at a time when the Zimbabwean government is clamping down on illegal mining activities. The consequences of riverbed mining have far-reaching environmental impacts, and as Chayambuka’s case shows, authorities are no longer turning a blind eye.

The Zimbabwean government has taken a decisive step by banning all mining and desiltation activities in riverbeds with immediate effect. The move follows increasing concerns over the environmental devastation caused by such practices, including pollution, severe siltation, and the degradation of critical water sources.

During a Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, Hon. Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, revealed that large-scale mechanical alluvial mining was responsible for much of the destruction seen in Zimbabwe’s rivers. These mining practices, which have persisted since 2011, have not only disrupted riverine ecosystems but also threatened the nation’s dwindling water resources.

Minister Muswere emphasized, “The destruction of rivers through alluvial mining has resulted in severe environmental consequences, from water pollution to the disruption of ecosystems. The damage has far outweighed any potential benefits.”

The Cabinet acknowledged that rivers such as Nyagadzi, Mazowe, and Insiza have been severely affected, further threatening the country’s water supply. With Bulawayo’s Umzingwane Dam currently sitting at a dangerously low two percent capacity, the urgency of this ban cannot be understated. Illegal mining around water sources is not only contributing to the siltation of dams but also contaminating water supplies—a situation the nation can no longer afford.

The ban on riverbed mining is part of a broader government effort to address the environmental impact of extractive activities in Zimbabwe. The situation in Mount Darwin is just one example of the localized harm caused by individuals seeking short-term gains at the expense of long-term sustainability.

The Zimbabwean government’s commitment to enforcing the law and protecting natural ecosystems is clear, as seen in Chayambuka’s arrest. The fines and penalties serve as a deterrent, but more importantly, they reflect a wider recognition that without immediate action, the country’s critical resources, especially its water systems, may suffer irreversible damage.

As Zimbabwe battles the effects of climate change, illegal mining, and growing water scarcity, the government’s efforts to regulate mining practices and prioritize environmental protection have never been more critical. Chayambuka’s case serves as a warning to others, as the crackdown on illegal mining intensifies, reinforcing the message that the days of impunity for riverbed mining are over.

Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation Invests Over US$20 Million in New Coke Oven Battery

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Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation Invests Over US$20 Million in New Coke Oven Battery

Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation is driving the country’s value-addition efforts with a significant investment of over US$20 million in the construction of a cutting-edge coke oven battery in Hwange, Matabeleland North, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The ambitious project, set to be completed by December 2025, marks a major step forward in the nation’s push for industrial growth and mineral beneficiation.

The facility, designed to enhance the country’s coke production capacity, will consist of two advanced plants capable of producing a combined 100,000 tonnes of coke per month. Each plant has an installed capacity of 50,000 tonnes, positioning Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation as a key player in the region’s metallurgical and steel production sectors.

During a tour of the construction site, Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation’s General Manager, Mr Deng Yao Lu, expressed confidence in the project’s progress, stating that the plant is well on track for its scheduled commissioning.

“Our target is to have the plant fully operational by December 2025. The raw material, coal, will be sourced from local producers, which provides a significant market for them. This project is not just about us—it’s about supporting the broader economy,” he said.

The company is primarily targeting the export market, with South Africa already placing substantial orders for Coke. This has fueled the investment, as the region’s growing demand for high-quality Coke creates a ripe opportunity for expansion.

“We have already secured major orders from South Africa and anticipate even more demand once we’re fully operational. At full capacity, we expect to employ over 100 people, including locals, contributing to the local economy,” Deng added.

Beyond coke production, the facility will generate valuable by-products from the coking process, such as coal tar, ammonia, and crude benzol. These materials can be further refined into critical industrial chemicals like benzene, toluene, and xylene, contributing to the country’s goal of developing a more diversified and self-sustaining chemical industry.

Zimbabwe’s policies under the Second Republic have been a driving force behind the attraction of foreign direct investment, with Zimbabwe International Coking Corporation’s project standing as a testament to the favourable business environment. The company’s investment underscores the country’s growing reputation as a destination for industrial development and promises to be a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s mineral value-addition initiatives.

Unki Maintains IRMA 75 as Mogalakwena Mine Achieves IRMA 50 on Responsible Mining Standard

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Unki Maintains IRMA 75 as Mogalakwena Mine Achieves IRMA 50 on Responsible Mining Standard

Zimbabwe’s third-largest Platinum Group Metal (PGM) producer, Unki Mine, has successfully maintained its Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) 75 rating following a rigorous surveillance audit conducted in 2024, Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) has announced.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Unki Mine first achieved this prestigious rating in 2021, becoming the first mine in the world to publicly commit to an independent audit against the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining. The mine’s sustained performance demonstrates its ongoing commitment to ethical and responsible mining practices, which are increasingly becoming a critical benchmark for global operations.

In the same announcement, Amplats revealed that its flagship South African operation, Mogalakwena Mine, has been assessed for the first time against the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, attaining an IRMA 50 certification. This achievement is particularly significant as it reflects Amplats’ dedication to responsible mining practices across its entire portfolio. Mogalakwena is the last of Amplats’ four wholly owned PGM mines to undergo an IRMA audit, following Mototolo and Amandelbult Mines, which were audited earlier in 2024 and achieved IRMA 75 and IRMA 50, respectively. This milestone brings the company closer to its target of having all its mines certified by 2025, in line with its sustainability and transparency goals.

Speaking on the achievement, Anglo American Platinum CEO Craig Miller said, “As a leading adopter of the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), we recognize that stakeholders, including our shareholders and customers, need to trust where and how our metals are mined. With this latest IRMA accreditation for Mogalakwena, we have achieved our target of having all our mines assured by 2025. We are immensely proud of the work the teams are doing across all of our operations to support responsible mining, enabling us to demonstrate an ethical value chain for our metals, and we look forward to continuing to lead the way in the PGMs sector globally.”

Amplats has long recognized the growing importance of responsible mining, not only in the context of environmental stewardship but also in terms of social responsibility. The IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining is widely considered one of the most comprehensive and stringent mining standards globally, addressing critical areas such as environmental performance, human rights, community engagement, and occupational health and safety. For mines like Unki and Mogalakwena, achieving and maintaining IRMA certification requires substantial effort and dedication to meet the high thresholds set by the standard.

The IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining was developed over a decade of consultation with more than 100 individuals and organizations, including mining companies, labor unions, environmental groups, communities affected by mining, and companies that purchase mined materials. The result is one of the most rigorous third-party verification processes in the mining industry, designed to offer independent, transparent assessments of mining operations worldwide.

The scoring system of IRMA recognizes four levels of performance: IRMA Transparency, IRMA 50, IRMA 75, and IRMA 100. Mines achieving IRMA Transparency undergo a third-party assessment and publicly share their scores. To achieve IRMA 50, as Mogalakwena has done, a mine must meet a core set of critical requirements and at least 50% of the criteria in each of the four principles of responsible mining. Unki’s IRMA 75 status signifies that it meets 75% of these criteria, placing it among the highest-scoring mines globally. These audits are conducted regularly to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with evolving industry standards.

Aimee Boulanger, Executive Director of IRMA, highlighted the importance of these independent audits, stating, “Through detailed IRMA audit reports, mining companies, communities, and companies that purchase mined materials can gain the information they need to decide what’s going well and what may require more attention at specific mines. Mogalakwena’s report demonstrates that the mine can point to transparent, independent evaluations of their environmental and social performance, along with the other three Anglo-American Platinum mines in South Africa and Zimbabwe.”

Amplats has positioned itself as a leader in responsible PGM production, with sustainability initiatives that extend across all its operations. The company’s sustainability strategy focuses on responsible resource extraction, environmental conservation, and fostering positive socio-economic impacts in the communities where it operates. In the case of Unki Mine, the IRMA 75 rating reflects the mine’s efforts to minimize environmental harm, manage water resources responsibly, and ensure that the social and economic benefits of mining are shared with local communities.

Mogalakwena, the world’s largest open-pit platinum mine, plays a central role in Amplats’ portfolio. Its IRMA 50 rating, while a significant achievement, signals that there is still room for improvement. The mine’s operations have faced scrutiny in the past for issues related to water management, community relations, and biodiversity conservation, areas where the IRMA audit process will likely drive future enhancements.

Amplats aims to have all its mines operating under IRMA’s rigorous standards, underscoring its commitment to transparency and ethical mining. This approach positions the company as a responsible leader in the mining sector and aligns with the growing demand from investors, customers, and regulators for companies to demonstrate sustainable practices across their supply chains.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 21 March 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 21 March 2025

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 21 March 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$92.30g
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$91.32g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$90.35/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$89.37/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$87.91/g

Fire Assay CASH $92.79/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

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