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Caledonia Maintains US$0.14 Dividend as Gold Prices Surge to Record Highs

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Caledonia Maintains US$0.14 Dividend as Gold Prices Surge to Record Highs

Multi-listed, gold-focused miner Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc has announced that its board of directors has approved a quarterly dividend of 14 United States cents (US$0.14) per share, continuing the trend of consistent payouts to its shareholders, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Caledonia has opted to maintain its dividend at the same level for now, but the board will continue to evaluate future dividends based on the company’s financial performance and investment opportunities.

The decision comes amidst a backdrop of soaring gold prices that have significantly boosted the value of the yellow metal.

According to recent reports, the price of gold has been steadily climbing since the beginning of the year, reaching all-time highs in March 2025 due to several factors, including geopolitical tensions, inflation fears, and changes in monetary policy. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting results, which confirmed a cautious stance on interest rates, further fueled the gold market rally.

Since October 2021, Caledonia has maintained a stable quarterly dividend of US$0.14, signalling confidence in its long-term strategy despite fluctuations in the gold market. The company’s current dividend policy, in place since 2014, reflects its commitment to maximizing shareholder value while balancing capital investment needs and prudent risk management.

Key Dividend Dates:

  • Ex-dividend date VFEX: April 2, 2025
  • Ex-dividend date AIM: April 3, 2025
  • Ex-dividend date NYSE American: April 4, 2025
  • Record date: April 4, 2025
  • Payment date: April 18, 2025

Shareholders with a registered address in the UK will be paid in sterling, with conversion rates applied at the payment date.

The unprecedented rise in gold prices might suggest room for a higher dividend payout in the future. The rally in gold has been driven by a mix of economic uncertainties and investor flight to safe-haven assets. According to experts, gold’s value has surged due to inflationary pressures, the weakening of the US dollar, and market speculation regarding future interest rate hikes. This has placed miners like Caledonia in a favourable position, with increased revenue from higher gold prices potentially translating into increased shareholder returns.

Caledonia’s history of gradually increasing dividends—particularly during periods of favourable market conditions—has set a precedent for future reviews. In recent years, the company has adjusted its dividends based on operational success and financial performance, with significant increases recorded between 2020 and 2021 as gold prices strengthened.

However, Caledonia’s conservative approach to capital allocation ensures that the company’s long-term growth strategy, including its focus on expanding production and de-risking from being a single-asset producer, remains a priority. The board’s future dividend considerations will likely depend on continued favourable market conditions, investment opportunities, and the company’s operational performance.

For now, investors can enjoy the stability of the US$0.14 dividend, with the potential for increases in the future as gold prices continue to climb.

Swedish Firms Eye Zimbabwe’s Mining Sector

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Swedish Firms Eye Zimbabwe’s Mining Sector

Swedish firms are showing keen interest in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, driven by abundant opportunities and favorable incentives offered by the government. This development emerged during the Swedish-Zimbabwean Sustainability in Mining Expo held in Harare on Friday, where European Union-based companies demonstrated their enthusiasm for Zimbabwe’s growing mining industry, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Camilla Mellander, Director General of Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the purpose of the Swedish delegation’s visit, stating, “We are in Zimbabwe to assess the prospects for mining collaboration. During our visit to Zimplats, we observed that over 60% of the machinery used is from Sweden, underscoring the long-standing cooperation between our two nations. Sweden is well-positioned to contribute to Zimbabwe’s mining sector, particularly in providing equipment and sustainable practices.”

Mellander further emphasized the importance of sustainable mining for the growth of Zimbabwe’s mining industry, adding that Sweden’s mining sector, which plays a significant role in the country’s economy, could provide valuable insights and synergies for Zimbabwe’s mining value chains.

Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening ties with Sweden in the mining sector was echoed by Priscilla Misihairabwi, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Sweden, the Nordics, and the Baltics. “We are thrilled to host this delegation. It reflects the government’s dedication to facilitating foreign investment and growth in the mining sector, which has seen tremendous expansion thanks to various government initiatives. Sweden’s interest reinforces the strengthening ties between our countries, and we expect this partnership to unlock even more opportunities in resource extraction.”

The importance of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability was emphasized by the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Honourable Winston Chitando. “Zimbabwe is rich in mineral resources, and the mining sector is pivotal in achieving our Vision 2030. However, it is crucial to ensure that we adopt sustainable mining practices, and Sweden’s presence here is invaluable in helping us enhance these efforts for long-term success.”

The Swedish-Zimbabwean Sustainability in Mining Expo provided a platform for showcasing Swedish technologies and innovations aimed at promoting sustainable mining in Zimbabwe. It also facilitated the exchange of ideas and best practices between industry representatives from both nations, contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader agenda of engagement and re-engagement with global economies.

With Swedish mining firms already exploring the vast opportunities available in Zimbabwe, the future looks promising for a partnership that can drive growth and sustainability in the mining sector.

Pan African Promises Fireworks at Upcoming Mine Rescue Competitions

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Pan African Promises Fireworks at Upcoming Mine Rescue Competitions

The Pan African Mines rescue team is gearing up to make a powerful statement at the upcoming national mine rescue competitions after finally being commissioned following nearly a decade of preparation, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The team’s manager, Rukudzo Dehwah, expressed his excitement and confidence in the team’s capabilities, promising that they will deliver a top-tier performance in the competition.

“It’s been a long time coming with the commissioning. We established this team in 2016, and back then, I was still with Brigadesmen. It’s taken us almost 10 years to get commissioned,” Dehwah said.

The delay, however, has not dampened their spirit, and now that they are officially part of the Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe (MRAZ), the team is ready to showcase its skills on the national stage.

Dehwah also took the opportunity to thank both the Mine Rescue Association and Pan African Mining’s management for their unwavering support throughout the years of preparation. “We appreciate the Mine Rescue Association for being patient with us and Pan African Mining’s management for the support,” he said.

Now, with the team officially commissioned, Dehwah is focused on the upcoming national mine rescue competitions.

“We will definitely participate in the national competitions, and we hope to come out as one of the best teams in the competitions and proceed to the next stage—if there is a next stage,” he stated with optimism.

The Pan African Mining fresh air rescue team’s participation in the competitions has been long anticipated, and their presence adds to the growing field of rescue teams representing Zimbabwe’s mining sector. Mine rescue competitions test teams’ skills in handling emergencies, including underground rescues, firefighting, gas detection, and first aid, under realistic and intense conditions.

With Pan African’s team now officially in the running, expectations are high. Their extensive preparation and commitment to excellence make them strong contenders in the competition, and Dehwah’s promise of “fireworks” has raised excitement across the sector.

The national mine rescue competitions are not only a platform for showcasing rescue skills but also serve as a critical opportunity for knowledge sharing and learning from the best teams across the country. With the support of MRAZ, these competitions help elevate Zimbabwe’s standards in mine safety and emergency preparedness.

As the countdown to the competition begins, all eyes will be on Pan African Mining’s rescue team, eagerly waiting to see whether they can live up to their promise of delivering a stellar performance and making their mark on the national mine rescue scene.

Unki Mine’s Parent Company Amplats Proposes Name Change to Valterra Platinum

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Unki Mine’s Parent Company Amplats Proposes Name Change to Valterra Platinum

Zimbabwe’s third-largest platinum group metals (PGM) producer, Unki Mine‘s parent company, Anglo American Platinum (Amplats), has proposed a name change to Valterra Platinum as part of its plans to spin off into a standalone unit, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The company announced on Thursday, stating that the rebranding aligns with its strategy as it moves toward independence from Anglo American Plc.

Amplats, the world’s leading producer of platinum group metals by volume, is expected to complete its separation from the parent company by June. This move comes as Anglo American Plc shifts its focus toward key energy transition metals, such as copper and iron ore, reflecting its strategy to prioritize metals critical to the global energy transition.

The proposed name change will be subject to approval by Amplats’ shareholders at the company’s annual general meeting, scheduled for May 8. If approved, the company will continue to be listed primarily on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and maintain a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange.

Unki Mine, located in Zimbabwe, remains a critical asset for Amplats, contributing significantly to the company’s overall PGM production. The proposed rebranding and spin-off are expected to enhance the operational focus of Unki and other Amplats subsidiaries, allowing them to pursue growth opportunities more independently within the PGM sector.

This development marks a significant step in the evolution of Amplats as it positions itself for future growth in a rapidly changing global metals market.

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.

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