Home Blog Page 228

RAMAPHOSA OPENS MINING INDABA WITH CALL FOR COLLABORATION

Mining
-
0
RAMAPHOSA OPENS MINING INDABA WITH CALL FOR COLLABORATION

Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024 opened yesterday in Cape Town with a record 11,000 registered delegates from 126 countries, and 8,000 delegates attending on the first day.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony with a clarion call for collaboration between the mining industry and government, highlighting the immense potential that Africa has in being central to the global clean energy transition. “Our Just Energy Transition Investment Plan outlines a pathway to create new industries and support more livelihoods in the green economy.” President Ramaphosa appealed for the Indaba to prioritise discussions on how to strengthen mining value chains and enhance beneficiation.

In his much-anticipated address, President Ramaphosa also touched on the South African government’s four priorities aimed at developing the mining sector.  Top of the list is the government’s proposed solutions to solve South Africa’s crippling power challenges, where he mapped out critical measures taken through the Electricity Action Plan to improve the performance of the existing generation fleet and initiatives to add to the electricity grid. President Ramaphosa also spoke about measures to tackle illegal mining and the resultant damage to infrastructure, referring to the specialised police task force mandated to deal with criminal elements.  President Ramaphosa expressed his commitment to resolving the backlog in prospecting and mining rights applications by improving the regulatory environment through the development of a new cadastral system.

Mining Indaba 2024’s opening ceremony also featured keynote addresses from Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema who reiterated his government’s commitment to making Zambia a reliable investment partner of choice on the African continent. Democratic Republic of Congo Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde highlighted investment opportunities in the DRC’s mining sector in his keynote address.

This year’s theme, “Embracing the power of positive disruption: A bold new future for African Mining,” promised to ignite meaningful dialogue in a way never done before and the first day of Mining Indaba did not disappoint. Kickstarting the Disruptive Discussions were the series of “Voices of Disruption” panels which saw insightful conversations from Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad, Rio Tinto Minerals CEO Sinead Kaufman, Newmont African Business Unit MD David Thornton and Barrick Gold Corporation CEO Mark Bristow. “In keeping with our 2024 theme, we want to ignite meaningful dialogues that extend beyond the event and radically transform the conversation on pressing issues”, says Frans Baleni, Executive Advisory Board Chairman of Mining Indaba

This year marks Mining Indaba’s 30th anniversary with over 320 exhibitors, 400 speakers, 1,000 Investors, 450 mining companies, proving it is the largest African mining investment event.

About the Investing in African Mining Indaba

Investing in African Mining Indaba is the largest mining investment event in Africa. With a proven track record of bringing together Ministers, senior Government representatives, Mining Companies, Mid and Junior Miners, Investors, professional services as well as mining equipment and service providers, Mining Indaba is the place to meet everybody who’s anybody in the African and global mining industry.

It is the must-attend event that drives the mining industry forward and provides attendees with unmatched access to the entire value chain and the most influential players in African mining for four days of high-quality content, deal-making and networking opportunities.

Zimplats’ Mopani to host AMMZ’s Q1 technical visit

Mining
-
0
Zimplats’ Mopani to host AMMZ’s Q1 technical visit

Zimplats, the country’s largest platinum group metal (PGM) producer, is set to host the Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ)‘s Q1 technical visit on the 23rd of February, 2024 at its Mupani Mine in Ngezi, Mashonaland West.

AMMZ‘s technical visit aims to facilitate the exchange of information, skills, and expertise within the mining industry.

In a statement, the AMMZ announced the event and provided a registration link for interested members to participate: “The Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe will be having a technical visit at Zimplats Mupani Mine on the 23rd of February 2024. Members wishing to take part can register on the link provided below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVwA36ih0T-V2hjpGlNf2crW1GBHL7h3M3Q8sC1qhywAJhYQ/viewform?pli=1,” stated the AMMZ.

As a forward-thinking organization, AMMZ is dedicated to advancing knowledge and aiding in the adoption of technology and specialization, fostering local collaboration. The association plays a pivotal role in talent development and promotes the safe and sustainable extraction of minerals.

During the technical visit, delegates will be guided through presentations, underground tours, and engaging discussions, providing a platform for knowledge sharing among industry professionals.

Mining Indaba Day one, Highlights

Mining
-
0
Mining Indaba Day one, Highlights

Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024 currently underway at Cape Town International Conference Centre yesterday roared to life.

Day one was a hive of activity, with various events lined up, from the Opening Ceremony to impactful Presidential Addresses, Disruptive Discussions launch, and global dialogue at the Electronic and Automotive Producers Talk shop.

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) supported by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development are exhibiting at the event and engaging with global investors and stakeholders with interests in Zimbabwe Mining.

Major stakeholders which include representatives from the Chamber of Mines, the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), ZITF, the Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ), and the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development are also in attendance.

A significant number of delegations visited the Zimbabwe Stand to be furnished with information on the various investment opportunities available in the country.

Mining Indaba 2024 Opening Ceremony

Mining Indaba 2024 commenced with a vibrant Opening Ceremony, launching a week of innovation. Day one featured compelling keynotes and dynamic discussions shaping the future of mining.

Heads of State Addresses

Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa,  Hakainde Hichilema, and Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde delivered crucial insights during the Heads of State Keynotes, initiating the tone for insightful and impactful sessions.

Disruptive Discussion Launch

Industry leaders explored positive disruption and the future of African mining, discussing topics such as exploration, mineral export bans, critical mineral supply, logistics and community involvement.

Global Electronic and Automotive Producers Talkshop

In this session discussions centred around the importance of accessing critical minerals, the value Africa can bring to the industrialisation of components and why is good performance at ESG at the centre of the global supply chain debate.

What to look out for Today

Partners for prosperity: the future of democracy, good governance and responsible mining in Africa

When: 09:15 – 10:00 at the Disruptors Stage

  • To what degree will strengthening democracy, good governance and rule of law enable more responsible mining and, in doing so, support the development of the continent and the objectives of the energy transition?
  • How can mining companies support the strengthening of democracy, good governance and the rule of law?
  • How can civil society best partner with the mining sector to strengthen governance?

Investment roundtables – Spotlighting commodity trends

When: 11:10 – 11:50 at the Pioneers Stage

Table 1: Gold & PGMs

Table 2: Lithium & Graphite

Table 3: Manganese & Iron ore

Table 4: Nickel, Cobalt & Copper

Mining Indaba will run until the 8th of February 2024.

 

ZCDC constructs a block at Chiadzwa Primary School

Mining
-
0
ZCDC constructs a block at Chiadzwa Primary School

The Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) has undertaken the construction of a new block at Chiadzwa Primary School, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring that communities benefit from the extraction of minerals in the area.

The initiative aims to empower future generations through education, reinforcing ZCDC’s dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

According to ZCDC, the recent commissioning of the school block at Chiadzwa Primary is a testament to their ongoing CSR commitment. The company has consistently supported Chiadzwa Primary in terms of education, with a focus on creating a positive impact on the community.

In the previous year, Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon Advocate M. Mugadza, disclosed that ZCDC had set a CSR target of US$6 million. Minister Mugadza commended ZCDC for its substantial contribution to the enhancement of health, education, and infrastructure in Manicaland as part of its CSR strategy.

“ZCDC has set a target of USD 6 million as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, contributing to the improvement of health, education, and infrastructure, among other areas,” stated Minister Mugadza. He highlighted the Sakubva Urban Renewal Project, partially financed by ZCDC, as a key initiative expected to contribute positively to the region upon completion.

Mugadza urged ZCDC’s leadership to continue investing in initiatives aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of the people in Manicaland and Zimbabwe at large. He emphasized the importance of supporting communities through ongoing initiatives, acknowledging ZCDC’s significant role in job creation and various CSR programs that align with the national agenda for economic development.

“Our mining companies, including ZCDC, are making substantial contributions to the provincial Gross Domestic Product. I am proud that ZCDC, our state miner, has not only generated employment in Manicaland province but is also actively investing in CSR programs to give back to the community and support our national economic development agenda,” stated Hon Advocate Mugadza.

Interview: Hon Zhemu Soda Minister of Mines and Mining Development

Mining
-
0
Interview: Hon Zhemu Soda Minister of Mines and Mining Development

Congratulations Hon. Minister for being appointed the Minister of a key Ministry, the best Ministry in our books. What is your vision for your term of office?

I thank you for congratulating me. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank His Excellency, The President for showing confidence in me to be at the helm of such an important Ministry. I am grateful for the support from the Ministry staff and all stakeholders so far. The Presidium also readily renders guidance that makes my job enjoyable. My vision as Minister of Mines and Mining Development is “A sustainable and inclusive mining sector that brings more value to the country and its people.”

Your thoughts on those who say Zimbabwe is a bad investment destination?

Zimbabwe’s mantra of being “open for business” and “being a friend to all and an enemy to none” and the re-engagement thrust have all collectively resulted in our investment destination being conducive and attractive. The investment interest we have registered in the mining sector since the inception of the 2nd Republic serves as testimony to this. The excellent economic performance of the country also serves as a factor in making the investment climate promotive of investment.

Can you provide examples of successful mining projects in the country where foreign investment has played a crucial role, showcasing the potential for lucrative returns on investment in the country’s mining industry?

The Mining Sector is a key player in the country’s economic development. The sector contributes more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s export receipts, attracts more than 50% of foreign direct investment (FDI), contributes about 13% to the country’s GDP and generates significant employment. A total of USD 5.3 billion was realized in foreign direct investment into major mining projects since the onset of the 2nd Republic to date.

The key investment projects include:

  1. Tsingshan Steel Plant Establishment – The Capital Investment for Phase 1 of the project is about USD1 Billion and is expected to have an annual turnover of over USD600 Million. The project is set to employ over 2000 people during the first phase. At full scale, the Steel company is expected to employ more than 10,000 workers directly while it will create employment for millions of Zimbabweans indirectly through the upstream and downstream industries.
  2. Blanket Mine – His Excellency, President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa officially opened Blanket Gold Mine Central Shaft on 17 November 2022. Caledonia Mine has also constructed a 12MW Solar Plant at Blanket Mine, at a cost of around USD14 million.
  3. Zimplats is undertaking a number of expansion and beneficiation projects at a total investment of USD 1.5 billion. Nearly 6000 jobs will be created during the course of the expansion
  4. Karo Platinum is developing a PGM concentrator Plant at a total investment of USD200 million.
  5. Dinson Colliery recently completed the establishment of a Coking Coal Plant at a total of USD70 million.
  6. Invictus Energy invested a total of USD18 million for the exploration of oil and gas in Muzarabani.
  7. Bikita Minerals invested a total of USD 300 million for the establishment of spodumene and petalite plant.
  8. Sabi Star invested a total of USD 130 million for the establishment of a spodumene plant.

What steps are being taken to improve the regulatory framework and streamline licensing processes for mining investments, reducing bureaucracy and accelerating project development timelines?

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE

Ministry of Mines’ ASM SHE Awareness Campaign Starts

Mining
-
0
Ministry of Mines’ ASM SHE Awareness Campaign Starts

The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development‘s Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) awareness campaign  resumed today in Mashonaland West and Matabeleland South Provinces. Artisanal and small-scale miners will be trained to improve their SHE standards.

The government aims to achieve a world-class mining industry with excellent safety standards, where zero harm and zero lost time injuries (LTI) are not only possible but a reality.

The Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon Zhemu Soda, announced the SHE campaign last month after the Redwing Mine incident, where 15 artisanal miners were trapped underground due to a fall of ground when they robbed the pillars of the mine.

Minister Soda consulted organizations representing miners, the Chamber of Mines, and the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), announcing a country-wide campaign to train and educate ASM.

In Mashonaland West and Matabeleland South, the campaign will begin today in Mhangura and Fibabusi, respectively. In Mashonaland West, the teams will be in Chegutu on Tuesday, Chikuti on Wednesday, and Kadoma from Thursday to Friday.

In Matabeleland South, the teams will visit Esigodini, Matopo, Maphisa, Umzingwane, Shangani, Mangwe, and Gwanda. From February 12 to 16, the program will be carried out in Masvingo’s Gutu, Mashava, Stop Over, Ngundu, and in Mashonaland Central’s Guruve, Mt Darwin, Shamva, Mazowe, Chiweshe, and Christon Bank.

In the Midlands Province, the program will be rolled out in Shurugwi, Mberengwa, Kwekwe, Zvishavane, Silobela, Zhombe, and Gokwe from February 19 to 23. On the same dates, in Mashonaland East Province, the program will be held in Makaha, Kotwa, UMP, Goromonzi, and Mutoko.

To wrap up the program from February 26 to March 01, it will be rolled out in Matabeleland North Province in Inyathi and Bubi, as well as in Manicaland Province in Chimanimani, Nyanga, Penhalonga, Odzi, Buhera, and Headlands.

Regarding the course content for training and awareness, the ministry mentioned legal compliance covering title acquisition, appointment of competent persons, statutory fees, and their purposes, explosive permits and licenses, Statutory Instrument (SI) 109 OF 1990/SI 72 OF 1989, as well as the Mines and Minerals Act.

The safe mining course will cover safe mining practices, dangers of mining in old shafts, pillar robbing risks, mining in riverbanks, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and safe equipment.

Another key course is environmentally friendly mining, addressing cyanide and mercury use, environmental degradation, and rehabilitation during and after mining. Topics include environmental impact assessment (EIA) and environmental management plan (EMP), river conservation, mining methods and planning, mine planning, use of professionals, avoidance of resource dilution, and effects of resource dilution.

The course on the Mining Industry Loan Fund (MILF) will cover aspects such as what MILF is, eligibility, application procedures, advantages, and benefits, including the US$5 million gold facility.

Minister Soda Zhemu is on record, urging artisanal and small-scale miners to formalize their operations to enhance governance, as they contribute more than half of the country’s gold production.”

Diamond Drilling Exploration for small-scale miners initiated

Mining
-
0
Diamond Drilling Exploration for small-scale miners initiated

In an effort to ensure that artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) mine a quantified and defined resource, and to enable them to mine lower grades and deeper, Great Zimbabwe Mining and Exploration Drilling is launching exploration initiatives for small-scale miners, said the company’s Managing Director, Patrick Takaedza.

Rudairo Mapuranga

According to Takaedza, there is limited exploration in Zimbabwe currently due to a lack of ground due to the non-issuance of Exclusive Prospecting Orders (EPOS) with most of the land open for exploration currently in the hands of small-scale miners hence the reason why Great Zimbabwe will focus on the sector.

He said his company was also supporting the government’s initiative of increasing production, formalisation and regularisation of mining in the country.

“There is limited exploration currently happening in the country and certainly no meaningful exploration by local players for various reasons some of which are pretty obvious like lack of ground or rather sterilization of ground available for exploration through the non-issuance of EPOs. This has effectively left land held by either the large corporates or by the ASM, who are our target. So many mineral resources potentially lay undiscovered as exploration technology and methodology have improved over the years but none or little has been tried locally.

“Targeting small-scale miners for mineral exploration was a strategic decision for several reasons. ASM plays a significant role in many economies, including Zimbabwe, providing livelihoods for a large number of people and contributing to local and national economies. By focusing on supporting ASM, we are supporting the government’s initiative in increasing production, formalizing and regulating this sector, and improving safety, environmental practices, and overall productivity. We also want to promote awareness of the value and benefit of exploration not only to the ASM but the government itself.

“Furthermore, our targeting to assist ASM aligns with the government agenda focused on economic development, poverty reduction, and sustainable resource management. By providing exploration support and resources for the ASM we are promoting inclusive growth and helping create opportunities for the generally marginalized sector and communities.

“Apart from these positive impacts, we would like to essentially take a lead in ensuring that these activities are conducted responsibly and sustainably, taking into account environmental, social, and economic considerations. We hope this will inspire the ASM to follow the same,” Takaedza said.

He said Great Zimbabwe Mining and Exploration Drilling do not only wish to quantify the country’s mineral resources but also wish to have mineral resources explored, developed and exploited sustainably.

The company hopes that showcasing the value or exploration will benefit both the ASM and government at both local and national levels through the following;

  1. Encouraging Investment: If the Government understands the basis of exploration from the company’s approach and perspective, it will create a conducive environment for domestic and foreign investment in mineral exploration probably by offering incentives, streamlining regulations, and providing legal and financial certainty.
  2. Public-Private Partnerships: Great Zimbabwe also hopes that its activities will encourage collaboration between government entities, private companies, and research institutions to facilitate exploration efforts by combining resources, expertise, and funding.
  3. Geoscientific Data Collection: Exploration is also an investment in the collection and management of geoscientific data, such as geological mapping, geophysical surveys, and geochemical analysis, that can then provide a foundation for understanding the country’s mineral potential.
  4. Capacity Building: From the company’s exploration activities within the ASM, Great Zimbabwe hopes to conscientize and support education and training programs in geosciences and exploration techniques that can help build a skilled workforce capable of conducting effective and ongoing mineral exploration.
  5. Regulatory Framework: Once the company is established and both the ASM and government realise the worth of mineral exploration, Great Zimbabwe Mining and Exploration Drilling hope the government will be persuaded to develop clear and transparent regulations for mineral exploration that can then provide certainty for investors and ensure that exploration activities are conducted responsibly.
  6. Technology and Innovation: The company hope to bring in new technologies to the ASM, such as remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and advanced exploration techniques, that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of mineral exploration at a very reasonable cost.
  7. Community Engagement: Great Zimbabwe Mining and Exploration Drilling will also undertake to involve local communities in the exploration process, respecting land rights, and addressing social and environmental concerns that can contribute to the success and sustainability of exploration activities. This way local communities will understand and not resist exploration and mining activities within their communities.

According to the company, by implementing these strategies, Zimbabwe can work towards quantifying and effectively managing their mineral resources, and increasing production, which is crucial for sustainable economic development and resource stewardship.

Zimbabwe showcasing mineral potential & investment opportunities at Mining Indaba

Mining
-
0
Zimbabwe showcasing mineral potential & investment opportunities at Mining Indaba

Zimbabwe will from the 5th of February to the 8th of February 2024 showcase its mineral potential and investment opportunities available in the country at Mining Indaba, which is largest Mining Investment Event held on Africa soil.

The annual event hosts thousands of investors, industry captains and key government officials responsible for making the highest decisions in the mining Industry.

The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development supported by the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) team up to engage with thousands of potential investors and business people to demonstrate opportunities available in the mining sector of Zimbabwe.

Other key players including the Chamber of Mines, Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR), Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), ZCDC also support the initiative and engage with businesses interested in their sectors.

To further the message Mining Zimbabwe will be distributing its February 2024 edition at the event brimming with investment centred articles and a focus on the investment climate in Zimbabwe.

Highlights includes the not to be missed Interview with the Minister of Mines and Mining Development Hon Zhemu Soda, fastest rising human centric mining solutions provider, Kuchera, a one on one with the country’s GOLD buyer and Better Brands CEO Scott Sakupwanya, the Venice Mine Complex site visit among many others.

The country’s leading Mining equipment and service providers also supported the Zimbabwe mining marketing initiative.

Expressing gratitude Mining Zimbabwe Managing Director said sponsors and service providers made it possible for the country’s authoritative mining publication to take the true Zimbabwe resource story into the hands of world class investors.

“I would like to thank all leading players that supported us and to them I say this is not just supporting Mining Zimbabwe but also supporting the drive to bring investment into the country. Equipment and service providers are oil that keeps the mining machine well lubricated to keep it running. Hopefully the global visibility will bring new partnerships and business,” he said .

Supporting partners included SBS, Firstlink insurance, Kuchera, Tandamanzi, Dandemutande, Fams, Boltgas, ZEISS, ZITF, Chamber of Mines, MMCZ, Electro Mechanica, SAFI Minerals, Betterbrands, Equipment Services, Hogarths, Nissan Clover, Binmak Corporation, ZB Bank, Stanserv, Powerstar, The Gem, Wisejet Cranes and CBZ Bank.

Free copies of Mining Zimbabwe will be found at key areas at the event. Normal distribution is currently underway in Zimbabwe.

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA TO ATTEND THE 30th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE MINING INDABA

Mining
-
0
PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA TO ATTEND THE 30th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE MINING INDABA

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 5 February 2024 deliver a keynote address during the 30th anniversary celebration of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town.

This year’s theme “Embracing the power of positive disruption: A bold new future for African Mining,” marks three decades as Africa’s premier platform for deal-making and discussions on critical mining issues.

The President’s participation underscores the significance of collaboration and sustainable development in the mining sector. His insights will contribute to disruptive discussions aimed at uncovering opportunities and addressing challenges within the industry. The event showcases Africa’s commitment to attracting investment in its mining sector.

Details of the event are as follows:
Date: Monday, 05 February 2024
Time: 09h00
Venue: Cape Town

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President- [email protected]

ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

www.thepresidency.gov.za

About the Investing in African Mining Indaba

Investing in African Mining Indaba is the largest mining investment event in Africa. With a proven track record of bringing together Ministers, senior Government representatives, Mining Companies, Mid and Junior Miners, Investors, professional services as well as mining equipment and service providers, Mining Indaba is the place to meet everybody who’s anybody in the African and global mining industry.

It is the must-attend event that drives the mining industry forward and provides attendees with unmatched access to the entire value chain and the most influential players in African mining for four days of high-quality content, deal-making and networking opportunities.

Encouraging results on drilling programme at Blanket

Mining
-
0
Encouraging results on drilling programme at Blanket

The Blanket Mine is pleased to announce that the results of its recent deep-level drilling program have been encouraging.

Patricia Rwafa

The drilling program was designed to explore the potential of the mine’s deeper horizons, and the results have exceeded expectations. This is great news for the mine and its investors, as it suggests that there is still a lot of potential for growth at the Blanket Mine.

These results follow the Eroica ore body drilling results published on July 10, 2023.  A total of 7,652 metres of drilling from June 2023 to the end of December 2023 indicated that the existing Blanket and Eroica ore bodies have grades and widths which are generally better than expected. Total drilling for 2023 was 13,280 metres.

“Our ongoing drilling campaign continues to demonstrate encouraging results, further improving our confidence in the Blanket resource.  We anticipate that the positive grades and widths will result in an increased overall resource, which in due course should result in the extension of the existing life of the mine,” said Mark Learmonth, Caledonia’s CEO.

“We have invested heavily in Blanket over the last seven years to increase production capacity, resulting in a mine infrastructure that can sustain production beyond the current production horizon”.

“Drilling is currently focused on the Blanket and Eroica ore bodies, where crosscuts have been mined to allow optimal access to drill the deeper zones of the steeply dipping ore bodies. These results are extremely promising, and we look forward to the next phase of drilling and to updating the market accordingly,” he said.

1...227228229...686Page 228 of 686