The Association of Junior Mining Professionals of Zimbabwe (AJMPZ) Secretary-General, Hazel Tsungai Karoro, was honored as the top female graduate at the 2024 Zimbabwe School of Mines graduation ceremony in Bulawayo, receiving over US$1,800 in awards.
By Patricia Rwafa
This prestigious recognition highlights Ms. Karoro’s dedication to the mining industry and her outstanding academic performance. Her achievements, including being named the Best Mine Ventilation student and receiving multiple awards from leading industry players, demonstrate the high regard in which she is held within the sector.
AJMPZ President, Eng. Wayne Mudamburi, praised her accomplishments, stating, “Ms. Karoro’s exceptional achievements are not only a testament to her hard work but also a reflection of AJMPZ’s commitment to nurturing talent and leadership in Zimbabwe’s mining sector.”
He added that with leaders like Hazel at the helm, AJMPZ is well-positioned to promote innovation, sustainability, and professionalism among junior mining professionals.
The Association expressed immense pride in Ms. Karoro and confidence that her accomplishments signal a bright future for Zimbabwe’s mining industry, inspired and led by the next generation of industry leaders.
Ms. Karoro’s notable awards include:
Mimosa Mining Company: US$800, Certificate of Academic Excellence, Floating Shield, and Personal Shield
ZB Bank: Floating Trophy
WFDR Risk Services: Floating Trophy
Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC): Floating Trophy and US$200
Stanbic Bank: Floating Trophy
Elevate Trust Zw: Floating Trophy and Personal Shield
Schweppes Zimbabwe Ltd: Hamper
Nissan Clover Leaf Motors: Floating Trophy
Zimplats: US$650, Certificate of Academic Excellence, Floating Shield, and Personal Shield
Eureka Mine is enhancing its surveying operations by incorporating drone technology to mitigate significant risks associated with daily surveying, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Ryan Chigoche
A recent technical visit by the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) to Eureka Mine revealed that the mine is taking substantial measures to reduce hazards faced by its surveyors. A major area of focus is the risk of high wall failure, a critical concern in open-pit mining.
Eureka Mine, an open-cast operation that began in 2021, reaches a depth of 140 meters. Due to the mine’s considerable depth, surveyors are exposed to substantial dangers. Hillary Mushonga, a senior member of Eureka’s surveying department, explained how drone technology is reducing surveyors’ exposure to these hazardous conditions.
“To address the risks associated with high wall failure, we have significantly reduced the time our staff spends near dangerous areas. For instance, drones are now used for mine design surveys, eliminating the need for our assistants to manually pick points along the toes of high walls,” Mushonga said.
He added, “For our mid-month and month-end surveys, we rely entirely on drones, ensuring our staff is not exposed to the dangers of standing near the crest or toes of high walls.”
Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in measuring water levels in the pit. While personal protective equipment (PPE), such as life jackets, is used, it offers limited protection against the risk of drowning.
Surveying in mining is inherently hazardous due to the challenging environments surveyors operate in. Geotechnical hazards, such as slope instability, present constant threats, especially in open-pit mines where landslides or rockfalls can occur suddenly. The integration of drones at Eureka represents a significant advancement in reducing these risks and improving the safety of surveying operations.
As they progress with drone implementation, Eureka is nearing ROC certification with the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. “We have already paid for our ROC licensing and are working on the necessary documentation. The process is ongoing, and we made the payment about two days ago,” said Collet Nguluve, the head of Eureka’s Survey department.
The AMSZ technical visit to Eureka Gold Mine provided members with practical exposure to the complexities of mining, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Speaking at the event, Stewart Gumbi of AMSZ commended Eureka Mine for its commitment to safety and the valuable knowledge members gained from the technical visit.
“Your willingness to open your doors and share your experience has been invaluable to our members and the broader mining community. The comprehensive tour of your operations, along with informative presentations by your team, has provided us with a deeper understanding of the innovations in surveying technologies and techniques that you employ. This knowledge will undoubtedly contribute to the professional development of our members. We also commend Eureka for its commitment to safety, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Your dedication to responsible mining practices serves as an inspiration to the entire mining industry,” Gumbi said.
The Eureka Gold Mine, located in Guruve, has demonstrated impressive performance in recent years, achieving a 93% gold recovery rate. The mine, which resumed gold production in 2021 after a 20-year hiatus, has seen production increase from 420 kg in 2021 to 1,617 kg in 2023.
Technical visits offer invaluable experiences for surveyors, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application. By observing surveying techniques and interacting with experienced professionals, surveyors enhance their problem-solving skills and practical expertise. These visits also facilitate networking and collaboration, support professional development, and promote a safety-conscious culture through discussions and the implementation of best practices.
In a promising display of international cooperation, Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe’s mining sector, recognizing the significant potential for collaboration and growth, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
This key announcement was made during the 3rd Canada-Africa Business Conference, highlighting the opportunities ahead for both nations.
In his opening remarks, Canada’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Aristide, emphasized the vast opportunities available for Canadian companies to invest in Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources.
“Canada is committed to supporting Zimbabwe’s mining sector and believes there is tremendous potential for collaboration between our two countries,” Ambassador Aristide stated.
He further noted, “Zimbabwe’s abundant mineral resources, combined with Canada’s expertise in mining technology and sustainable practices, can forge a strong partnership that benefits both nations.”
The Ambassador stressed the importance of joint ventures and knowledge sharing, emphasizing that such collaborations can drive economic development and create jobs in both countries.
“I encourage Canadian companies to explore the opportunities in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and consider partnering with local businesses to establish long-term relationships.
“Zimbabwe is a country with a growing economy and a favourable investment climate, and I believe Canadian companies can play a significant role in its development,” Ambassador Aristide added.
The 3rd Canada-Africa Business Conference serves as a vital platform, bringing together business leaders, government officials, and industry experts from both countries to discuss avenues for trade, investment, and collaboration.
This event is set to further strengthen ties between Canada and Zimbabwe and promote economic growth in both nations.
Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR), Zimbabwe’s sole gold buyer and exporter, has set an ambitious target of 40 tonnes of gold deliveries for 2025. This goal builds on the company’s strong performance in 2024, during which it received 24 tonnes of gold in the first nine months alone.
By Ryan Chigoche
This was revealed by FGR General Manager Peter Magaramombe while speaking at the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) Conference at Mine Entra which focused on sustainable and responsible mining as a catalyst for national development.
Fidelity Gold Refinery attributes its success to various factors, including increased mining activities by artisanal and small-scale miners, prompt payments to miners, favourable gold prices, supportive government policies, and effective stakeholder engagement.
To further enhance gold deliveries, the refinery has been implementing strategies such as expanding its network of gold buying centres and implementing a gold traceability system. These initiatives aim to formalize traditional gold trades, promote job creation, and ensure responsible sourcing of gold.
For the remainder of 2024, Fidelity Gold Refinery projects to receive an additional 11 tonnes of gold, bringing the total annual delivery to 35 tonnes. Speaking at the conference Magaramombe said this projection is based on the continued implementation of supportive policies, favourable prices, and enhanced regulatory frameworks.
”Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024, we anticipate sustained growth in gold deliveries if the existing conditions are maintained. Further, ongoing investments in mining infrastructure, increased small-scale mining contributions, and favourable global market trends are expected to drive this growth. This projection is conservative, considering the sector’s current momentum and potential. Several factors underpin our optimism, including the continued implementation of supportive policies, favourable prices, and enhanced regulatory frameworks,” he said.
The ambitious target of 40 tonnes in 2025 reflects Fidelity Gold Refinery’s confidence in the continued growth of the gold sector in Zimbabwe. The company believes that ongoing investments in mining infrastructure, increased small-scale mining contributions, and favourable global market trends will drive this growth.
Achieving this target would have significant economic benefits for Zimbabwe. The gold sector contributes substantially to the country’s export earnings and supports its economic development agenda. Fidelity Gold Refinery’s commitment to sustainable and responsible gold mining practices aligns with the government’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Zimbabwe.
Victoria Falls Stock Exchange-listed gold miner Caledonia Mining Corporation’s Blanket Minesaw a 6% increase in production during the nine months to September 2024 compared to the same period last year, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
According to a press release by the company, Blanket Mine in Gwanda produced approximately 1,591 kilograms of gold during this period, up from about 1,562 kilograms in the previous year.
“Gold produced in the nine months to the end of September was 56,815 ounces (2023: 55,244 ounces),” the company stated. “Caledonia reiterates its gold production guidance for 2024 of between 74,000 and 78,000 ounces.”
However, production for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, decreased compared to the same period last year, dropping from approximately 617 kilograms to 539 kilograms, a 13% decline.
“Quarterly gold production of 18,992 ounces (Q3 2023: 21,772 ounces) was a quarterly record for Blanket,” Caledonia said in the press release.
The gold miner also announced that future dividends will be declared alongside the publication of quarterly results (mid-March, May, August, and November). As a result, the Q3 2024 dividend, if approved by the board, will be declared in mid-November rather than at the start of October.
This change in the timing of dividends does not affect the company’s dividend policy. The board will continue to consider dividends as appropriate, in line with other investment opportunities and its prudent approach to risk management.
The specific amount of the dividend will be determined and announced at the time of declaration.
SG 90% and ABOVE US$80.66/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$79.80g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$78.95/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$78.10/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$76.82/g
Fire Assay CASH $81.08/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 world market prices.
DGC Africa, a proud member of the Dickinson Group of Companies, continues to be at the forefront of driving industrial growth across sub-Saharan Africa. As the demand for sustainable, efficient, and innovative industrial services accelerates, DGC Africa remains a trusted provider, delivering a comprehensive range of specialised solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of the mining, metallurgy, mineral processing, and manufacturing sectors.
With offices strategically positioned in South Africa, Mauritius, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, and Madagascar, DGC Africa leverages its extensive experience and technical expertise to deliver solutions that ensure optimal performance and efficiency. The company’s portfolio of services is tailored to each client’s operational challenges, offering bespoke solutions that align with their industrial requirements.
At the heart of DGC Africa’s service offerings are its furnace and smelter services, which play a critical role in maintaining the operational integrity of key assets across various industries. These services include complex furnace rebuilds, detailed inspections, and specialised refractory installations, all aimed at enhancing productivity, reducing downtime, and ensuring safety. By integrating advanced technology with decades of industry knowledge, DGC Africa helps its clients navigate and overcome the operational challenges posed by harsh industrial environments.
Additionally, DGC Africa delivers a broad range of other industrial services, such as industrial linings and mechanical engineering. These services enable companies to protect their assets, streamline operations, and maintain high safety standards, contributing to long-term sustainability and operational excellence.
Empowering Africa’s Workforce: DGC Workforce Solutions and Local Collaboration
An essential part of DGC Africa’s long-term strategy is its commitment to empowering local communities and developing the continent’s workforce. This commitment is exemplified through DGC Workforce Solutions, a pivotal division of DGC Africa that focuses on addressing the complex and evolving workforce needs of African industries.
With a legacy rooted in over a century of industrial service provision, DGC Workforce Solutions offers a comprehensive range of services that include specialised recruitment, flexible labour hire models, workforce management, and consulting services. By bridging critical skills gaps, fostering local talent, and ensuring regulatory compliance, DGC Workforce Solutions plays a significant role in driving Africa’s industrial development.
A key initiative in this regard is the collaboration with Browhil Trading in Zimbabwe. As DGC Africa continues to expand its footprint in Zimbabwe, DGC Workforce Solutions will partner with Browhil Trading to provide tailored workforce solutions that meet the demands of Zimbabwe’s growing industrial sectors. This collaboration aims to offer artisanal training, skilled labour provision, and workforce compliance services, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s industries have access to a highly skilled, adaptable, and compliant workforce.
In Zimbabwe, DGCA Zimbabwe, a joint venture between DGC Africa and Browhil Trading, already delivers essential services to the mining and metals smelting sectors. The venture provides crucial services, including furnace rebuilds, mechanical engineering projects, and refractory installation, all while fostering community development by training and employing local talent. This partnership exemplifies DGC Africa’s broader strategy of combining global standards with local expertise to boost local employment, enhance industrial capabilities, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of Zimbabwe.
A Vision for Africa’s Industrial Future
As DGC Africa continues to expand its reach across the continent, its focus remains firmly on innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment. The company’s dedication to delivering world-class industrial services, combined with its commitment to local workforce development, positions DGC Africa as a key player in Africa’s industrial evolution.
Whether through furnace and smelter services, mechanical engineering, or the strategic workforce solutions provided by DGC Workforce Solutions, the company remains a trusted partner for businesses seeking to enhance their operational efficiency while contributing to local development. DGC Africa’s ability to merge technical expertise with deep local insights ensures that its clients are well-equipped to meet today’s industrial challenges and take advantage of the opportunities of tomorrow.
As DGC Africa strengthens its presence in countries like Zimbabwe and beyond, the company continues to deliver critical industrial solutions that are driving the future of Africa’s industrial landscape.
Contributors: Justin Nothnagel (Director Business Development, Dickinson Group of Companies) Douglas Mhazo (Managing Director, DGC Zimbabwe)
Premier African Minerals Limited, a London Stock Exchange-listed mining and exploration company, has successfully raised £550,000 through a new share subscription to support ongoing operations and address challenges at its Zulu Lithium and Tantalum Project.
By Patricia Rwafa
In a press statement released on October 3, the company announced a subscription for 1,746,031,746 new ordinary shares to raise approximately £550,000 before expenses, at an issue price of 0.0315 pence per new ordinary share.
Following the announcement of Premier’s Interim Accounts on September 30, 2024, it remains critically important that Premier continues to support all essential operational requirements at both Premier and the Zulu Lithium and Tantalum Project (“Zulu”) while exploring a multi-option approach to advancing the project. This includes the possible sale of Zulu, either in its entirety, partially, or as a joint venture, or the potential installation of an additional spodumene float plant.
Regarding the installed spodumene float plant, it should be noted that one of several solutions under review would require increasing throughput beyond the original design capacity to match the surplus capacity of the cleaner cells.
At the same time, Premier African Minerals is engaged in negotiations that may lead to direct investment in Zulu.
The company is also pleased to report that it is in early discussions regarding payment options with a Chinese Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management company that could install an additional spodumene float plant at Zulu.
George Roach, CEO, expressed confidence in the company’s progress and anticipated a successful resolution to the remaining challenges.
He stated that production at the desired grade and recovery levels would follow.
Roach further emphasized that ongoing negotiations for alternative solutions were progressing positively and were expected to yield favourable outcomes.
“We are making progress, and I do expect a resolution to this final problem, after which we expect to produce at the desired grade and design recovery. The alternatives mentioned are under active negotiation, and a satisfactory outcome should result,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA) has enhanced its digital platform to connect small-scale miners with potential investors, providing a significant boost to the growth and development of the mining sector, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the ZMF Small to Medium-Scale Conference, held last Friday at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre on the sidelines of the Mining Engineering and Transport Expo (Mine Entra) in Bulawayo, ZIDA’s Chief Investment Promotion Officer, Mrs Silibaziso Chizwina, emphasized the platform’s potential to unlock opportunities for small-scale miners.
Previously, small-scale miners were required to pay a fee to be listed on the platform. However, ZIDA has now eliminated this requirement, making the platform free to use to promote small-scale mining and facilitate access to investors.
“This platform is a game-changer for small-scale miners. It provides a direct link to investors who are eager to invest in the mining sector,” said Mrs. Chizwina.
“We believe that this platform will not only help small-scale miners grow but also contribute to the overall development of the mining sector,” she added.
The platform is expected to attract both local and foreign investors seeking to capitalize on Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources. By facilitating connections between miners and investors, ZIDA aims to promote sustainable mining practices, creating new jobs and economic opportunities.
The ZIDA claim-matching platform allows small-scale miners to showcase their mining claims to potential investors, including financiers, technical partners, and equity partners. This can help miners secure the necessary funding and expertise to expand their operations and increase profitability.
In September last year, ZIDA launched an online platform aimed at linking mining claim holders with potential local and foreign investors to establish partnerships that could address funding gaps.
The platform allows investors to connect with claim holders in Zimbabwe and express their interest in investing. Mining claim holders are expected to gain increased access to potential investors worldwide. The platform profiles mining claims, making them more attractive to investors, and provides a transparent and secure way for claim holders to connect with potential partners.
To access the platform, investors are required to register and submit relevant information, such as contact details, investment objectives, and the type of mining claim they are interested in. Once an investor’s registration has been approved, they will be able to view registered mining claims and express their interest.
Investors are then given further details to contact and negotiate directly with the identified claim holders on a one-on-one basis, subject to claim availability.
According to the State of the Mining Industry Survey, Zimbabwean mining companies anticipate increased revenue in 2025 but remain pessimistic about profitability. Rising costs related to electricity and exchange rate losses are cited as major challenges.
By Ryan Chigoche
The survey data reveals that average mineral revenue is projected to increase by approximately 2% this year. Mining companies expect a further 10% rise in revenue, reaching around US$6 billion in 2025, driven by improved output and recovering commodity prices.
However, despite this optimistic revenue outlook, miners express concerns about the profitability of their operations. Nearly 40% of respondents predict a decline in profits due to escalating costs and uncertain commodity markets.
Electricity costs are expected to rise by an average of 8% next year. The current electricity tariff framework is deemed suboptimal, with many miners highlighting its unaffordability and lack of competitiveness at USc14.21/kWh. Zimbabwe’s electricity tariffs are among the highest in the region, exceeding those of neighbouring countries like Botswana and Zambia.
To address this issue, 93% of mining companies advocate for a tariff reduction to below USc13/kWh. Exchange rate losses also pose a significant threat to profitability, with miners losing nearly half of their mandatory 25% surrender portion of export proceeds due to the discrepancy between the official and parallel exchange rates.
In addition to these challenges, labour costs are expected to increase by 4% in 2025, primarily due to inflationary pressures and wage demands. Miners are also facing pressure from labour unions seeking full US dollar payments, which could further strain their foreign currency reserves.
To mitigate these challenges, mining executives are considering strategies such as deferring capital projects, improving operational efficiency, rationalizing procurement, optimizing labour, freezing hiring, and implementing multitasking where feasible.
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Empowering Africa’s Workforce: DGC Workforce Solutions and Local Collaboration
