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Plans to Set Up Internationally Certified Metallurgical Laboratory Underway

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Plans to Set Up Internationally Certified Metallurgical Laboratory Underway

Zimbabwe is set to bolster its mining sector with the establishment of an internationally recognized metallurgical laboratory.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Engineer Polite Kambamura, confirmed the government’s plans to create a laboratory that meets global standards, ensuring the country’s mineral exports are certified under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) code.

“Currently, we are working to capacitate the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development MetLab, but there are plans to construct and establish an internationally recognized metallurgical laboratory, which meets international standards so that some players who want their lab results internationally recognized under JORC will have no problems. So it’s a work in progress. The government is going to come up with a proper internationally recognized METLab,” stated Eng Kambamura.

The existing government lab, MetLab, is primarily used for testing and sampling minerals for control purposes. However, international clients do not accept its reports, potentially costing Zimbabwe millions of US dollars in lost revenue. This gap underscores the urgent need for a certified laboratory to verify mineral quality before export.

At a recent meeting aimed at gathering input from producers, miners expressed the critical need for local laboratories capable of certifying minerals to international standards. Eng Kambamura acknowledged this challenge, emphasizing the potential financial benefits for the country. “We note the concern that miners are getting a variance on the quality of their product when it gets to the international market compared to their expectations before export,” he said. “Obviously, this calls for internationally certified local testing laboratories which can then certify our minerals before export, and we are guaranteed that what we would have gotten here cannot be disputed anywhere in the world.”

A representative from Zimlabs, a local testing firm, highlighted that they possess state-of-the-art technology that remains underutilized due to low uptake by miners. Zimlabs specializes in gold fire assay, base metal analysis, coal analysis, sample preparation, and analysis of lithium and rare elements. “We have state-of-the-art machinery to do that job for you, where if we give you our results, you are sure even if you export you will get the same results,” stated the Zimlabs director.

This initiative is particularly significant for sectors like chrome and chromium, where discrepancies between local and international quality assessments have led to financial losses for producers. Accurate mineral testing is crucial for geologists to determine the mineral’s quality and ensure it meets the necessary standards for export.

The establishment of an internationally certified metallurgical laboratory aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of economic turnaround through agriculture and mining. As Zimbabwe strives to become an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, the enhancement of its mineral certification capabilities will play a vital role in maximizing export earnings and boosting the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy.

FGR’s Full Supply Chain Traceability System Set to Combat Gold Smuggling

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FGR’s Full Supply Chain Traceability System Set to Combat Gold Smuggling

The country’s sole gold buyer and exporter, Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR), is taking significant strides to ensure the integrity and transparency of its gold supply chain.

by Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking at the gold mobilization deployment workshop held at Cresta Jameson Hotel in Harare on Monday,  FGR General Manager Mr Peter Magaramombe, highlighted the company’s initiatives to promote responsible sourcing and combat the pervasive issue of gold smuggling.

Full Supply Chain Traceability System

One of the cornerstone developments at FGR is the implementation of a system that allows for full supply chain traceability. “Fidelity Gold Refinery is developing a system that allows full supply chain traceability. The system allows for real-time monitoring from bullion weighing by the producers,” stated Mr. Magaramombe.

This system, expected to go live by September 30, 2024, will enable detailed tracking of gold from the point of production through to its final market destination.

This real-time monitoring is crucial for verifying the source of gold and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. By integrating this advanced system, FGR aims to enhance transparency and accountability across the supply chain, making it significantly harder for illegally sourced gold to enter the market.

Increasing Gold Deliveries

In his speech, Mr Magaramombe also reported a notable increase in gold deliveries.

“For the month of April, gold deliveries to Fidelity recorded an increase of 32% from the March 2024 position of 1.8 tons to close at 2.4 tons,” Magaramombe said.

This surge reflects the effectiveness of FGR’s strategies and the growing compliance among miners with the responsible sourcing policies implemented by the gold buyer and exporter.

Combating Gold Smuggling

Zimbabwe has long struggled with gold smuggling, which deprives the nation of substantial revenue. The government and FGR are working diligently to minimize this illegal activity. Magaramombe emphasized the importance of responsible sourcing in this effort.

“Responsible sourcing means the incorporation of ethical, sustainable, and socially conscious principles into sourcing, procurement, and overall supply chain management practices during the sourcing of gold from various suppliers,” he explained.

FGR’s approach includes rigorous customer due diligence, mandatory record-keeping, and ensuring funds used in transactions are from legitimate sources. These measures align with national regulations on anti-money laundering and crime prevention.

Training and Policies

FGR has also prioritized training for its gold-buying agents. In April 2024, the company conducted a comprehensive training workshop focusing on responsible sourcing practices. This training covered aspects such as proper record-keeping, customer due diligence, and understanding the legal implications of non-compliance.

Moreover, FGR has established a robust Responsible Sourcing Policy, which guides all stakeholders in ensuring that gold is mined and traded ethically. This policy is publicly available on FGR’s website and underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable and conflict-free gold sourcing.

Government Collaboration

The government’s role in supporting these initiatives is pivotal. By collaborating with FGR and other stakeholders, the government ensures that policies and regulations are effectively enforced, thereby strengthening the fight against gold smuggling.

China Gold Congress to Help Zimbabwe Attract Capital: Chitando

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China Gold Congress to Help Zimbabwe Attract Capital: Chitando

The Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Winston Chitando, invited to be one of the key speakers at the China Gold Congress and Expo, sees it as an opportunity for Zimbabwe’s gold industry to attract capital for growth and development.

Speaking on the sidelines of the gold mobilization deployment workshop held at Jameson Hotel in Harare on Monday, Minister Chitando said the event will help the country attract capital investment for its growth.

“I think it is relevant to the extent that if you look at our gold sector, or the mining industry in general, and the gold sector in particular, you can see how this can help us. It can help us through interaction with stakeholders and by attracting the necessary capital for people to invest in the industry. So, it is relevant to that extent,” Hon. Chitando said.

The mining industry in Zimbabwe requires capital for exploration and mine development. Zimbabwe used to be in the top five gold producers, but at the moment it is not in the top 20 due to limited investment in exploration.

The China Gold Congress and Expo will be held on July 26-28 at the National Convention Center in Shanghai and will be hosted by the China Gold Association and the World Gold Council.

Through a letter seen by Mining Zimbabwe, Andy Yu, writing on behalf of the Chairman of the China Gold Association and the CEO of the World Gold Council, invited the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Winston Chitando, to be one of the key speakers at the event. The invitation was also extended to ZMF and the country’s gold mining industry.

The China Gold Congress and Expo covers the entire value chain, including exploration exchange, mining and technology, investment and market, and jewelry and consumption.

As one of the largest industrial gatherings, the China Gold Congress is a commercial event for gold mining and investment development. It offers a range of business opportunities, bringing together gold mining companies and suppliers for exchanges and collaborations.

Commenting on the invite, the ZMF President, Ms. Rushwaya, said it was a life-changing opportunity for ZMF and will empower the mining industry towards growth and development as the country moves towards the achievement of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

“This is a life-changing opportunity for ZMF, enabling our growth, especially in the gold sector, as we interact with world leaders and exchange information. We look forward to this event, which will market our miners and country. We are positive that we will forge exciting collaborations as we attend and speak at this event,” Rushwaya said.

Restoration of Large-Scale Mining at Mazowe Meets Resistance

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Restoration of Large-Scale Mining at Mazowe Meets Resistance

Efforts to restore large-scale mining operations at Mazowe Mining Company (MMC)’s Mazowe Mine have encountered significant resistance from local operators, MMC owners, Metallon Corporation, highlighted in a press release.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

According to Metallon, the development to start large-scale operations follows the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development’s directive to shut down unsafe areas managed by artisanal and small-scale miners.

“On January 27, 2024, MMC announced its plans to resume underground shaft operations as part of a broader strategy to reintroduce safer mining practices and extensively rehabilitate the mining areas. MMC’s initiative aligns with the Government of Zimbabwe’s emphasis on safe and sustainable mining practices and its investment in the growth of the critical mining sector.

In a further update, MMC reported that on March 11, 2024, the Ministry of Mines Inspectorate conducted a safety inspection of pit mining operations around Mazowe Mine. The inspection led to the suspension of all unsafe mining practices in the affected areas, effective March 24, 2024. This suspension was intended to halt hazardous operations and pave the way for formal, regulated mining activities.

According to Metallon, despite the legal mandate and MMC’s plans to restore organized mining, there has been notable resistance from some operators in the region. These actions have impeded MMC’s efforts to urgently rehabilitate mining pits and commence safer, large-scale mining operations.

Metallon stated that MMC expressed regret over the obstruction faced in implementing the Government’s order and advancing their rehabilitation initiatives.

“We regret that this legal Government order and the Mine’s plans to restore organized mining have faced resistance from some operators in the area. These actions have hindered MMC’s efforts to urgently rehabilitate mining pits and commence large-scale, safer mining operations. Mazowe Mine is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to achieve the following goals:

– Ending all unsafe pit mining and transitioning Mazowe Mine to secure shaft mining, thereby preventing loss of life and protecting local communities and the environment.
– Resuming large-scale underground shaft operations to align with the national goal for responsible and safer mining practices.

“MMC is fully cooperating with all parties to support the Government of Zimbabwe’s vision for safer, sustainable, formal mining,” Metallon Corporation said.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 20 May 2024

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 20 May 2024

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram today 20 May 2024.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$72.99/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$72.22g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$71.45/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$70.67/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$69.52/g

Fire Assay CASH $73.88/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.

ZMF scores a first: Becomes first Zimbabwean mining entity to be invited to showcase at a gold congress in China

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ZMF scores a first: Becomes first Zimbabwean mining entity to be invited to showcase at a gold congress in China

The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has become the first Zimbabwean mining entity to be invited to showcase at the China Gold Congress and Expo.

The China Gold Congress and Expo will be held on July 26-28 at the National Convention Center in Shanghai and will be hosted by the China Gold Association and World Gold Council.

Through a letter seen by Mining Zimbabwe, Andy Yu, writing on behalf of the Chairman of the China Gold Association and the CEO of the World Gold Council, invited the ZMF President, Ms. Henrietta Rushwaya, and her organization to grace the event.

“On behalf of the Chairman of the China Gold Association and the CEO of the World Gold Council, I hereby invite you to attend the 4th China Gold Congress and Expo, which will be held on July 26-28, 2024, at the National Convention Center (Shanghai).

“We have reserved a slot in the Gold Mining Investment session and the A04 booth with a prominent location for you.

“We would also like to extend this invitation to Zimbabwe’s gold industry players to participate in the event for technical exchange and investment cooperation,” Yu said.

The China Gold Congress and Expo covers the entire value chain, including Exploration Exchange, Mining and technology, Investment and market, and Jewelry and consumption.

As one of the largest industrial gatherings, the China Gold Congress is a commercial event for gold mining and investment development. It offers a range of business opportunities, bringing together gold mining companies and suppliers for exchanges and collaborations.

Commenting on the invite, the ZMF President, Ms. Rushwaya, said it was a life-changing opportunity for ZMF and would empower the mining industry towards growth and development as the country moves towards the achievement of an upper middle-income economy by 2030.

“This is a life-changing opportunity for ZMF, enabling our growth, especially in the gold sector, as we interact with world leaders and exchange information. We look forward to this event, which will market our miners and country. We are positive that we will forge exciting collaborations as we attend this event,” Rushwaya said.

Anjin Diamonds Theft Case: Suspects Granted Bail

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Anjin Diamonds Theft Case: Suspects Granted Bail

Harare Magistrate Apollonia Marutya has granted bail to five individuals accused of stealing a package containing valuable diamonds destined for the United Arab Emirates.

According to reports, the alleged theft took place during a diamond packing operation at Anjin’s offices within the premises of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare.

The five suspects, including a diamond inspector, evaluator, two security guards, and a police officer representing Anjin Investments, were said to be involved in the packing process slated for shipment to a company in Dubai.

During the packing procedure, personnel from various organizations, including Anjin, the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, and representatives from the customer company, Erleen Gold Trading DMCC Dubai, were present to oversee the operation.

However, investigations revealed that amidst this tightly controlled environment, the accused individuals conspired to steal a sachet containing diamonds weighing 98.20 carats.

The accused individuals Silas Chirume (54), Edward Jacob Gunda (62), Maison Phiri (37), Steven Wahita (56), and Isaac Muripa (37) vehemently deny the theft charges, asserting that the state’s case lacks evidence. Their lawyers argue that crucial CCTV footage has not been presented in court, casting doubt on the accusations or the existence of the so-called footage.

In her ruling, Magistrate Marutya emphasized the need for compelling evidence and raised doubts about the credibility of certain statements presented by the state. She underscored the importance of establishing grounds to support allegations of potential interference with witnesses, highlighting the absence of such evidence against the accused.

As part of the bail conditions, each accused individual has been prohibited from visiting Anjin Investments until the case is resolved. Additionally, specific reporting requirements have been imposed, with designated locations and times for regular updates to the authorities.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 15 May 2024

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 15 May 2024

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram today 15 May 2024.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$71.54/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$70.78g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$70.03/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$69.27/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$68.13/g

Fire Assay CASH $71.92/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.

Surveyors Gear Up for a One-Day Symposium on Friday in Bulawayo

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Surveyors Gear Up for a One-Day Symposium on Friday in Bulawayo

The Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) is preparing for an enlightening one-day symposium set to take place on Friday at the Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) in Bulawayo.

This symposium, led by the AMSZ in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, and the ZSM, promises to delve into critical aspects of the mining industry with a focus on empowering mine surveyors to play a pivotal role in its growth and development.

At the forefront of this initiative is AMSZ President Gabriel Mwale, whose dedication to ensuring that mine surveyors assume leadership roles in mining growth and development initiatives is commendable. Mwale’s efforts also extend to promoting sustainable mining practices, reflecting the AMSZ’s commitment to fostering responsible mining operations in Zimbabwe.

The AMSZ one-day symposium represents a pivotal moment for stakeholders in the mining sector to come together, share insights, and chart a course for the future of mining in Zimbabwe. With a focus on education, regulation, and sustainability, this gathering promises to be a catalyst for positive change within the industry.

The symposium aims to address a spectrum of pertinent issues crucial to the advancement of the mining sector. Among the topics slated for discussion are:

1. Update on Submissions to the Government of Zimbabwe’s Mining Bill: Deliberations will center on proposed inputs for subsequent mining regulations, aiming to ensure that legislative frameworks are conducive to sustainable and responsible mining practices.

2. Enhancing the Role of the Zimbabwe School of Mines: As the mining industry evolves, there is a pressing need to explore ways in which educational institutions like the Zimbabwe School of Mines can adapt to meet the changing demands of the sector.

3. Deliberation on the Government of Zimbabwe’s Mine Surveyor Certificate of Competency (ZGMSCC): This segment will delve into the history, current examination procedures, and necessary revisions required to align the certification process with the industry’s evolving needs and trends.

4. Update and Adoption of Recommendations from the Zimbabwe National Qualifications Framework (ZNQF) with Regards to Mine Surveying: Given the dynamic nature of the mining industry, it is imperative to ensure that qualifications frameworks remain relevant and responsive to industry requirements.

5. Election of a New AMSZ Curriculum Development Committee: The symposium will also provide a platform for the election of a new committee tasked with driving curriculum development initiatives within the AMSZ, ensuring that educational programs remain aligned with industry standards and best practices.

Anjin Diamonds Airport Theft Case: Bail Ruling Tomorrow

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Anjin Diamonds Airport Theft Case: Bail Ruling Tomorrow

Five individuals implicated in a diamond theft case at Anjin’s offices located within Robert Mugabe International Airport will know their fate tomorrow as a Harare court prepares to rule on bail for the accused.

The accused individuals Silas Chirume (54), Edward Jacob Gunda (62), Maison Phiri (37), Steven Wahita (56), and Isaac Muripa (37) vehemently deny the theft charges, asserting that the state’s case lacks evidence. Their lawyers argue that crucial CCTV footage has not been presented in court, casting doubt on the accusations or the existence of the so-called footage.

Allegations suggest that on April 17, 2024, around 9 am, Anjin Investments (Pvt) Ltd conducted a diamond packing exercise in preparation for shipping diamonds to the United Arab Emirates to a company called Erleen Gold Trading DMCC Dubai.

Personnel from Anjin, Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, CID Minerals Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) Harare, and the customer, Paolo Persico, representing Erleen Gold Trading DMCC Dubai, were present during packing. Silas Chirume (54), Edward Jacob Gunda (62), Maison Phiri (37), Steven Wahita (56), and Isaac Muripa (37) were part of the team responsible for packing 100 parcels into 10 bags before sealing them in a trunk.

Chirume is a diamond inspector at MMCZ, Phiri is a seasoned diamond evaluator at MMCZ, and Gunda is an assistant security manager at Anjin Investments at Robert Gabriel Mugabe (RGM) International Airport in Harare.

Wahita serves as a security supervisor at Anjin Investments stationed at RGM International Airport, while Muripa is a detective constable at CID MFFU Harare attached to RGM International Airport.

Police investigations revealed that during packing, the accused persons allegedly conspired and stole one sachet containing diamonds weighing 98.20 carats (19.64 grams). The consignment was shipped to the customer in the United Arab Emirates on May 3, 2024, but upon receipt, it was discovered that parcel number 39, containing diamonds weighing 98.20 carats, was missing.

The MMCZ notified the police, leading to an investigation. Six days later, detectives from CID MFFU Harare reviewed CCTV footage at Anjin’s offices at the airport. During the review, Chirume was allegedly observed picking one parcel containing diamonds and placing it in his right trousers pocket reportedly in full view of the other accused persons. Chirume was arrested and later implicated Phiri, Gunda, Wahita and Muripa.

It is claimed that Chirume admitted to sharing the proceeds with his accomplices and led the police to recover a silver Honda Fit, registration number AFA 1397, which he bought for US$3,200 using his share of the loot.

Subsequently, the other accused persons were arrested on separate occasions.

The state denies the accused’s bail, citing the strength of the case and concerns about porous borders.

The defence argues for bail, contending that the state’s case is weak.

The defence further contends that Edward Jacob Gunda (62), Maison Phiri (37), Steven Wahita (56), and Isaac Muripa (37) were merely implicated without substantial evidence. They argue that the police have no other evidence to confirm the involvement of these accused individuals in the alleged theft.

Additionally, the accused highlighted that they were arrested to aid in the investigation process.

Maison Phiri (37) refutes allegations of using stolen money for school fees, stating that his employer, Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), covered his children’s fees.

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