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Chrome Production Surges by Over 4 Percent

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Chrome Production Surges by Over 4 Percent

Chrome production in Zimbabwe experienced a notable surge, increasing by 4.37 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year, as reported by the country’s statistics agency, ZIMSTAT.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

This surge translated to a production of 1,204,755 MT in 2023, compared to 1,154,340 MT in 2022.

Despite facing a 46.62 per cent decline in production during the first quarter of 2023, dropping to 206,354 MT from 386,576 MT in the same period of 2022, the subsequent quarters painted a more optimistic picture.

The second quarter of 2023 witnessed a 14.89 per cent increase in production, with output reaching 274,978 MT, surpassing the 239,333 MT produced during the same quarter in 2022.

Although the third quarter of 2023 saw a decline of 27.88 per cent in production, dropping to 248,176 MT from 344,131 MT in 2022, the final quarter saw an astonishing 158.121 per cent increase. Production skyrocketed to 475,247 MT, a stark comparison to the 184,118 MT produced in the same period of 2022.

Zimbabwe’s chrome industry holds promising prospects, buoyed by several factors. Firstly, the country boasts chrome reserves of significant magnitude, positioning it as a key player in the global chrome market. These reserves provide a solid foundation for sustained production growth and economic development.

Moreover, Zimbabwe’s chrome is renowned for its high grades, boasting purity levels exceeding 46 per cent. This exceptional quality makes Zimbabwean chrome highly sought after on the international stage, attracting interest from various industries worldwide. The premium-grade ensures that Zimbabwe remains a prominent supplier in the competitive global chrome market, fostering economic stability and growth.

The surge in chrome production witnessed in 2023 underscores Zimbabwe’s potential as a major player in the chrome industry. With abundant reserves and top-grade quality, the country is poised to further solidify its position in the global market, driving economic prosperity for years to come.

Lithium Production Increases by Over 760 Percent

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Lithium Production Increases by Over 760 Percent

Lithium production surged by over 760 per cent in 2023, driven by the activation of several mines and lithium processing facilities.

by Rudairo Mapuranga

According to data released by the country’s statistics agency ZIMSTAT, production skyrocketed to 745,455 metric tonnes (MT) in 2023, marking an impressive 763.5 per cent increase from the 86,330 MT produced in 2022.

The first quarter of 2023 witnessed a surge of approximately 130.9 per cent, with production reaching 25,000 MT compared to 10,825 MT in the same quarter of 2022. In the second quarter, production spiked by about 405.8 per cent to 79,689 MT from 15,755 MT in 2022.

During the third quarter of 2023, production soared by approximately 807.5 per cent to 325,479 MT, compared to 35,866 MT in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Similarly, the fourth quarter saw a substantial increase of approximately 1220.1 per cent, with production reaching 315,287 MT, up from 23,884 MT in 2022.

Looking ahead, projections indicate continued growth in lithium production, solidifying the country’s position as a major player in the global lithium market.

In 2023, according to the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Zhemu Soda, lithium exports, despite the US$12 Billion vision by 2023, stimulated the lithium sector to realize US$600 million in exports annually.

“Lithium exports were targeted at half a Billion US dollars, but a total of over USD 600 million was realized from the export of Spodumene, Petalite, and Lepidolite, despite export bans that were effected in 2023, underscoring the importance of these lithium minerals to our economy,” Minister Soda said.

According to Hon. Soda, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development will continue to work on strategies to help the country realize more gains from its mineral resources. These strategies include coming up with Special Purpose Vehicles for mineral exploration, new mine openings, re-capacitation of dormant mines, expansion of current mining projects, curbing mineral leakages, increased capacity utilization, and ultimately value addition and beneficiation across the whole sector.

Diamond production increases by 5 percent

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Diamond production increases by 5 percent

Diamond production in Zimbabwe saw a notable increase of 4.99 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to statistics provided by ZIMSTAT.

In 2023, the country produced a total of 5,107,931 carats, marking a significant rise from the 4,865,011 carats produced in 2022. This upward trend reflects the ongoing growth and development within Zimbabwe’s diamond mining industry.

During the first quarter of 2023, the country witnessed a remarkable surge in diamond production, totalling 1,637,554 carats. This represented a substantial 54.8 per cent increase from the 1,057,710 carats produced during the same period in 2022. Similarly, the second quarter of 2023 saw a significant uptick in production, with 1,204,805 carats produced, marking a notable 26.8 per cent increase from the comparable quarter in 2022, which recorded 949,921 carats.

However, the third quarter of 2023 experienced a slight decline in production, with a decrease of 22 per cent to 1,035,905 carats compared to the same period in 2022, which saw 1,329,805 carats produced. Likewise, the fourth quarter of 2023 saw a decrease of 19 per cent, with production totalling 1,229,677 carats, down from 1,527,573 carats in the same quarter of 2022.

The history of diamond mining in Zimbabwe dates back to the late 19th century, with the discovery of significant diamond deposits in the country. Over the years, Zimbabwe has become renowned for its rich diamond resources, attracting investment and fostering growth in the sector. As Zimbabwe progresses towards its Vision 2030, which aims for sustainable economic development and prosperity, the diamond mining industry is poised to play a pivotal role. By leveraging its abundant diamond reserves and implementing strategic initiatives, Zimbabwe can further enhance its position as a key player in the global diamond market, contributing to the country’s vision of achieving socio-economic transformation and prosperity for its citizens.

Five Arrested for Stealing US$48,360 Copper Cables at Zimplats

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Five Arrested for Stealing US$48,360 Copper Cables at Zimplats

Five individuals have been apprehended by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Kadoma in connection with the theft of copper cables at Zimplats’ Mupfuti Mine in Mhondoro Ngezi.

According to Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the arrests were made following intelligence received regarding the stolen copper cables.

Four of the suspects, Donald Magaya (23), Onismo Magaya (26), Takudzwa Mango (25), and Robson Mandini (23), were intercepted while travelling in two white Toyota GD6 vehicles. Upon search, law enforcement discovered 2.5 tonnes of copper cables valued at US$48,360, while Innocent Chafera (38) was arrested while hiding in a disused mining shaft.

Nyathi emphasized the police’s commitment to apprehending the outstanding suspect, Kudakwashe Mutizira, who fled the scene upon police intervention.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirms the arrest of Donald Magaya (23), Onismo Magaya (26), Takudzwa Mango (25), Rabson Mandini (23), and Innocent Chafera (38) in connection with a case of theft of copper cables which occurred at Ngwarati Mine, Turf, Kadoma on 14th April 2024 at 10:30 am.

“On the 14th of April 2024, police in Kadoma acted on received information and intercepted Donald Magaya, Onismo Magaya, Rabson Mandini, and Takudzwa Mango who were travelling in two white Toyota GD6 motor vehicles registration number AFU 4025 and AGH 4138, near Ngezi Services Garage, Turf Kadoma. On seeing the police, the suspects’ accomplice, Kudakwashe Mutizira, fled from the scene. The police conducted a search and recovered copper cables weighing 2,572 kilograms valued at US$48,360; subsequently, the four suspects were arrested.

“The four suspects were interviewed and implicated Innocent Chafera as their accomplice, who was arrested while hiding in a disused mining shaft.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of the outstanding suspect, Kudakwashe Mutizira, who is being sought in connection with this case,” Nyathi said.

Meanwhile, the ZRP is also appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of a foreign national, Francis Chikopa (45), who is being sought in connection with a case of theft of copper which occurred between 30th March 2024 and 31st March.

The suspect was driving a white Howo Sinotruck loaded with 36 tonnes of copper which was in transit from Zambia to Mozambique. He offloaded the copper at an unknown place and later dumped the truck at Macheke Business Centre.

These incidents occur against the backdrop of Zimbabwe’s ongoing electricity challenges, which have prompted increased incidents of copper cable theft. Such criminal activities not only disrupt essential infrastructure but also pose significant safety risks to communities.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram today 19 April 2024

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram today 19 April 2024

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram today 19 April 2024.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$72.39/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$71.62g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$70.86/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$70.09/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$68.94/g

Fire Assay CASH $72.77/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.

De Beers Unearths Sales Boom in Rough Diamond Sales for Cycle 3, 2024

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De Beers Unearths Sales Boom in Rough Diamond Sales for Cycle 3, 2024

Anglo-American’s diamond subsidiary, De Beers, reported a significant increase in rough diamond sales for the third sales cycle of 2024. The provisional rough diamond sales of Cycle 3 represent the expected sales value for the period and remain subject to adjustment based on final completed sales.

Patricia Rwafa

De Beers announced last year that the seventh sales cycle of 2023, which took place between August 14 and 29, generated only $370 million in sales. This was a drop from the previous cycle of $411 million and $456 million and a significant decline from the seventh cycle of 2022, which generated $638 million.

De Beers’ rough diamond sales improved in the second sales cycle of 2024 compared to the first but have not fully recovered to the 2023 holiday season levels. Sales were higher than the $374 million of rough diamonds sold in the first quarter of this year but lower than the $497 million in rough diamonds sold in the second sales cycle of 2023.

De Beers sold around $445 million worth of rough diamonds in their latest sales this year. This number is an estimate and could change slightly after final sales are counted.

The company estimates the recent rough diamond sales were around $445 million. This is a provisional figure based on auctions and sales to approved buyers and could change slightly once final sales are tallied.

As the company compares with the $431 million of revenue generated from sales in the second cycle of this year and $542 million of revenue generated in the third cycle of last year, it shows some improvement in sales. Diamond miner De Beers says it generated about $445 million in revenue from its third sales cycle for this year.

The figure represents the expected sales value from the company’s latest global sight-holder sales and auctions and remains subject to adjustment. It compares with the $431 million of revenue generated from sales in the second cycle of this year and $542 million of revenue generated in the third cycle of last year. Their recent diamond sales hit $445 million, which is a positive sign considering it’s usually a slow time for the rough diamond market. It may spark an increase but not quite at the level they reached in 2023.

According to the CEO of De Beers, Al Cook, “Many diamond businesses are continuing to take a cautious approach to purchases amidst the uncertain economic landscape and the slow pace of growth in China. However, we saw a further uptick in our rough diamond sales in our third sales cycle, ahead of what is usually a slower period for rough diamond demand in the second quarter of the year.”

De Beers has rough diamond mines across Africa and Canada, digging deep pits (open-pit mining), sifting through riverbeds and beaches (alluvial mining), and even going underwater near the shore (coastal mining, a new trick up their sleeve). Their mines are scattered like jewels themselves, with some of the biggest being the Victor Mine in Canada and the Orapa and Letlhakane mines in Botswana (run with a partner).

Oil and Gas Trading is Still Not Under MMCZ

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The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) remains uncertain about whether it will oversee the trading and export of oil and gas in Zimbabwe due to the absence of legislation defining these commodities as minerals.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development in Mutare, MMCZ Acting General Manager Dr. Nomsa Moyo explained that the organization has not received a clear mandate to manage oil and gas affairs.

According to Dr Moyo, the Mines and Minerals Act empowers the Minister to delineate what constitutes a mineral, and currently, there has been no communication regarding the classification of oil and gas.

She clarified that if the Minister designates oil and gas as minerals, MMCZ would assume responsibility for their oversight.

“In terms of the Mines and Minerals Act, the Minister defines what a mineral is. And so far, we haven’t been told whether, because we preside over minerals, whether gas and oil are minerals. So, the Minister has the powers to designate anything that is found as a mineral. So we have not yet been given the mandate to preside over gas and oil. But if the Minister so defines it as a mineral, then it is our thinking that it will be under our mandate. But so far, we haven’t been told whether we are going to be presiding over gas and oil,” Dr Moyo elaborated.

Oil and gas exploration in the Muzarabani-Mbire district has yielded significant results, with the government of Zimbabwe confirming the discovery of light oil, which fetches higher prices, requires less refinery purification, and produces a higher percentage of diesel and gasoline.

Speaking to the Media at a Press Conference held in Harare in early March, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development Hon. Zhemu Soda said that in addition to natural gas, an investor Geo Associates and its partners Invictus Energy and One Gas Resource, which are undertaking exploration at Mukuyu-2 exploration well, have discovered light oil, helium, and hydrogen.

“The results are that the natural gas is of high quality with minimal impurities and that there is no Hydrogen Sulphide in the samples (which is an undesirable constituent in oil and gas). Above all, the oil discovered falls into the light oil classification. This is the oil classification that produces diesel, petrol, as well as jet A1. The presence of helium and hydrogen that has also been confirmed becomes a welcome bonus from the Mukuyu deposit,” Minister Soda said.

According to Minister Soda, reserve fluid samples by Invictus Energy show that for every one million standard cubic feet of gas, there are an estimated 14-22 barrels of condensate/light oil. The natural gas is of high quality with minimal impurities; there is no hydrogen sulphide in the sample, and CO2 is less than 2%.

Invictus Energy Managing Director Scott McMillan said Mukuyu-1 mud gas analysis results also confirmed the presence of light oil and gas condensate yields of 30-135 bbls/MMscf and high-quality natural gas with minimal impurities.

ICZ Advocates for Advanced Fire Prevention Measures in Mining Sector

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ICZ Advocates for Advanced Fire Prevention Measures in Mining Sector
The Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ), represented by its Fire Prevention Inspection Bureau Manager Mr. Gasper Mazuru, has emphasized the need for enhanced fire prevention measures in the mining industry and other sectors.
Rudairo Mapuranga
Mazuru highlighted the importance of replacing current fire prevention systems with advanced ones capable of automatically suppressing fires even in the absence of human intervention.
Speaking during a fire suppression exercise organized by ICZ and led by Fire Dust Control Africa (FDCA) at FBC Old Harareans Sports Club in Harare, Mazuru underscored the preference for automatic fire suppression systems due to their ability to independently extinguish fires. He noted the challenges faced in installing traditional sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers in mining environments, citing the need for drilling. In contrast, Mazuru praised the compact nature of the Fire Pro system, which can effectively suppress fires while occupying minimal space.
“We prefer an automatic system that can suppress fires independently, ensuring protection even during periods of inactivity. Unlike traditional methods, these systems operate autonomously, eliminating the need for human intervention,” Mazuru said
Highlighting the advancements in fire suppression technology, Mazuru emphasized the ease of installation of modern systems, particularly in existing buildings or mining tunnels. He expressed optimism about the potential benefits of adopting such technologies for insured parties and insurers.
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe on the sidelines of the exercise, Alec Nyaumwe, Business Development Manager of Fire Dust Control Africa, reaffirmed the effectiveness of Firepro systems in various mining setups. He emphasized the rigorous testing and international certifications undergone by these systems, ensuring their reliability in suppressing fires.
 “Our advanced fire suppression systems have undergone robust testing and international certifications, guaranteeing their efficiency in suppressing fires. We provide tailored solutions for specific environments, ensuring optimal performance,” Nyaumwe said.
He concluded by emphasizing the commitment to providing systems with a 100% success rate in fire suppression, underscoring the importance of comprehensive protection measures in fire prevention.

Gem cutters bring expertise to the School of Mines

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Gem cutters bring expertise to the School of Mines

Coloured Gemstone Consultancy, Ethanseth Private Limited, in partnership with the Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM), is launching a three-day cutting and polishing program aimed at nurturing a new generation of lapidarists within the gemstone industry.

In an interview with Mining Zimbabwe, Ethanseth Director Ms. Hamunyari Murombo Gwese reiterated her company’s dedication to furthering the government’s goal of achieving upper middle-income status by 2030.

“Our vision is for Zimbabwe to mirror countries like Pakistan, where the number of gem cutters and polishers exceeds 5000,” Ms Gwese stated.

“Ethanseth Private Limited is a coloured gemstone consultancy committed to promoting various aspects of coloured gemstones, including healing, chakra, mining, beneficiation, and value addition.

“At the School of Mines, we aim to impart our extensive expertise in gemstone cutting and polishing to empower the next generation of lapidarists. Through facilitating skills transfer, particularly in this specialized field, we aim to bridge the gap between Zimbabwe’s current gem-cutting capacity—less than 100 individuals, possibly even fewer than 50—and the thriving industries in Pakistan and India.

“By training just 10 individuals in each province, we can significantly expand our workforce and make substantial contributions to realizing Vision 2030. Furthermore, our efforts will promote greater gender inclusivity within the sector, empowering more women to engage in this lucrative field,” she concluded.

Confirming the partnership, School of Mines projects manager Mr January informed Mining Zimbabwe that further details would be disclosed when the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon Zhemu Soda, officially inaugurates the geology department next week, Friday.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 16 April 2024

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices per gram 16 April 2024

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram today 16 April 2024.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$71.22/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$70.46g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$69.71/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$68.96/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$67.83/g

Fire Assay CASH $71.59/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.

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