Gift Mapakame is an accomplished leader in Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector. With over 14 years of experience—more than seven in senior management— Engineer Mapakame has played a significant role in transforming Shamva Gold Mine into one of the nation’s leading gold producers.
Under his leadership, the Shamva mine has achieved remarkable milestones, including significantly scaling up production and surpassing 1.2 million fatality-free shifts.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into his inspiring career were he shares his insights on leadership, operational success, safety excellence, and the future of Zimbabwe’s gold mining industry amidst a dynamic regulatory and environmental landscape.
Q: Could you share a bit about your background before pursuing mining as a career? What inspired you to choose mining engineering, and how has your journey evolved to your current position as General Manager of Shamva Gold Mine?
A: Growing up in the mining town of Bindura, I developed a passion for engineering and the built environment. Both my parents worked at Anglo-American’s Bindura Nickel Corporation, which exposed me to the mining industry early on. Career guidance sessions and interactive events hosted by Anglo inspired me to pursue mining engineering.
After earning my degree from the University of Zimbabwe, I began my career at Bindura Nickel Corporation and later transitioned to Freda Rebecca Gold Mine, where I contributed to its revival in 2010. My journey progressed through various roles, culminating in my appointment as General Manager of Shamva Mining Company in 2022, where I now contribute to the growth of a broader commodities group.
Q: With over 14 years in gold mining, including seven in senior management, what key leadership strategies have helped you successfully manage Shamva Gold Mine?
A: Building a competent team and fostering a culture of attention to detail, analytical thinking, and prompt decision-making were key strategies. This alignment between roles and competencies ensured the team worked cohesively toward shared goals.
I also embrace vulnerability in my leadership style, always striving for continuous improvement. This mindset has transformed Shamva into a learning organization that refines fundamentals to achieve predictable and consistent performance.
Q: Shamva Gold Mine has reached milestones such as producing 55,000 tonnes of ore monthly—up from 20,000 tonnes—and achieving over 1.2 million fatality-free shifts. What factors contributed to these accomplishments?
A: Success stems from assembling the right team, defining clear business objectives, and implementing transformative operational measures. Safety is at the core of our values, supported by rigorous training, awareness programs, and an internationally recognized management system.
Our Board and group have been instrumental, offering both financial flexibility and lessons from past challenges, which enhanced our production processes.
Q: KUVIMBA Mining House has projected that Shamva Gold Mine requires US$150 million for processing facilities. What are the main plans for this investment, and how will it transform Shamva into a world-class operation?
A: Shamva hosts one of Zimbabwe’s largest sulphide-gold deposits, paving the way for a significant open-pit operation. The investment will fund a Definitive Feasibility Study and new processing facilities. Once operational, Shamva Mine will compete among the nation’s top gold producers, achieving new production heights.
Q: Shamva has not reached this level of production since 1910. What innovations or operational changes have revitalized productivity?
A: We streamlined underground operations with a present-value approach, enhanced resource evaluation, and optimized infrastructure along the mine-to-mill value chain. Additionally, starter-pit projects serve as precursors to larger open-pit operations.
Q: Could you describe the technological and operational frameworks in place at Shamva Gold Mine? How have they contributed to safety and efficiency?
A: We are certified under ISO 45001, ISO 14001, and ISO 9001 standards and are working towards additional certifications like ISO 17025 and ISO 55000. This risk-based system ensures hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementation of preventive measures for each task.
Q: Shamva Mine uses conventional mining methods with 10-tonne locomotives. What are the advantages and challenges of this approach in modern gold mining?
A: Conventional methods allow for selective mining, optimizing mineral yield. However, they expose personnel to risks. To address this, we are exploring advanced technologies like battery-powered trackless equipment, modular tunnel boring, and raise boring to improve safety and efficiency.
Q: As a member of the AMMZ Executive Council, what are your thoughts on the future of Zimbabwe’s gold mining industry, especially regarding sustainability and regulatory developments?
A: The future is bright with opportunities for growth. However, the sector must tackle underinvestment in exploration, development, and equipment. Strengthening lobbying institutions like the Chamber of Mines is critical to aligning industry needs with policy goals.
Q: How has your educational background in Mining Engineering, an MBA in Finance, and an MSc in Mineral Economics influenced your approach to mine management?
A: My education has bridged knowledge gaps across technical, business, and economic aspects of mining. This holistic perspective enhances decision-making and enables strategic, informed leadership.
Q: You were the Past President of the Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe. How has this experience shaped your approach to safety at Shamva Gold Mine?
A: Mine rescue instills a commitment to emergency preparedness, which is central to Shamva’s safety protocols. We have developed an on-site rescue team equipped with rigorous training and mock drills to handle potential crises effectively.
Q: What advice would you give to young mining engineers aspiring to senior management roles in Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector?
A: Stay focused, eager to learn, and committed to hard work. Respect and courtesy are crucial. Most importantly, embrace the challenges—they offer invaluable learning opportunities.
Q: Mining can be demanding, especially in leadership roles. How do you balance your professional and personal life?
A: I enjoy golfing and outdoor adventures, including camping at Mana Pools. These activities help me recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
This interview first appeared in the Mining Zimbabwe Magazine edition 76 which was first distributed at the AMMZ AGM 2024
The proposed US$500-million merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Hennessy Capital Investment Corp. VI (Nasdaq: HCVI) is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. The deal values the combined enterprise at approximately US$609 million. Namib Minerals’ management team will continue to lead the company following the transaction.