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BREAKING: Rushwaya remanded to Tuesday, court waits for evidence from RBZ

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BREAKING: Rushwaya remanded to Tuesday, court waits for evidence from RBZ

Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) President Ms Henrietta Rushwaya who was recently convicted of a gold smuggling attempt has been remanded to Tuesday 14 November for sentencing in the anti-corruption court at the High Court in Harare as the state waits for evidence from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) on how much the state was prejudiced.

Rudairo Mapuranga

She was remanded in custody last week for sentencing today after the Anti-Corruption Court turned down her request to remain on bail pending sentence following her conviction on charges of attempting to smuggle 6kg of gold worth more than US$333 000 to Dubai three years ago.

The court is allowed to have oral evidence on the amount of prejudice following a conviction from corruption-related charges.

The court has established that the gold Rushwaya was convicted for trying to smuggle belonged to her this might therefore mean that the state could have been prejudiced 1 percent of the Gold translating to US$3 300.

According to the law gold produced by small miners attract 1 per cent royalty (for the first 0.5 kgs of gold delivered to a holder of a gold licence in a calendar month); 1 per cent (if the gold is delivered by a holder of a gold-buying agency permit to a holder of a gold-dealing licence in a calendar month), 2 percent (if the gold delivered to a holder of a gold dealing licence in a calendar month exceeds 0.5 kgs). And Gold produced by other miners attracts 3 percent (if the gold produced by them is sold at a time when its price is below US$1,200 per ounce) 5 percent (if the gold produced by them is sold at a time when its price is above US$1,200 per ounce).

Rushwaya denied the charge, claiming she mistakenly picked up the wrong bag, one containing gold bars rather than the one she meant to take on her trip and that smuggling 6kgs of gold is not worth the hustle as the amount gained cannot even pay for airfares.

Justice Pisirayi Kwenda, who presided over the trial with two assessors, found Rushwaya guilty, dismissing her defence of a “wrong bag” as implausible. Rushwaya was charged along with two Central Intelligence Organisation operatives Stephen Tserai and Raphios Mufandauya.

These two were found not guilty at the close of the prosecution case, for lack of evidence that they had committed a smuggling offence. This left Rushwaya to put on her defence after the court ruled she did have a case to answer. Now the judge must work out the sentence after taking into account evidence presented in aggravation and mitigation.

The ZMF Executives including all the 8 Provincial chairpersons came to court in support of their President.

Zim optimistic of 55% diamond production increase

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Zim optimistic of 55% diamond production increase

The government of Zimbabwe is optimistic that diamond producers will reach the country’s target of 7 million carats an increase of over 55 per cent from 4.5 million carats produced last year, Mines and Mining Development Minister Hon Zhemu Soda has hinted.

Rudairo Mapuranga

Zimbabwe, which is the world’s seventh-largest diamond producer, earned US$424 million in diamond earnings in 2022 from 4.5 million carats. The 4.5 million carats was an increase of around 7 per cent compared to the previous year. In the same year, the country ranked seventh among the world’s largest diamond producers by volume.

Diamond production recorded a significant year-on-year increase in the first quarter of 2023. The output index for diamonds rose by 54.8 per cent from 229.3 in Q1 2022 to 355.0 in Q1 2023. On a quarterly basis, the percentage change was 7.2.

Speaking at the official opening of the Kimberly Process (KP) Plenary Meeting in Victoria Falls on Wednesday, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development Hon Zhemu Soda said the government was optimistic that diamond producers were going to reach the set target of 7 million carats in 2023.

“In Zimbabwe, diamonds have contributed to the development of our nation. Currently, our target is to produce at least 7 million carats by the end of 2023. We are optimistic that diamond producers will reach this target,” Soda said.

Hon Soda said diamond companies (Anjin Investment, RZM Murowa, Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) and Alrosa Zimbabwe which is currently in the exploration stage) are actively involved in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives at the same time giving 10 per cent of their diamonds to local cutting and polishing companies to create employment.

“Our diamond sector is made up of three mining companies, Anjin Investments, RZM Murowa and Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company and we are pleased with their production and revenue output. Alrosa Zimbabwe is carrying out exploration and we are hopeful for positive results. The companies are also continuously engaged in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects within the communities that host the mineral deposits.

“The Government of Zimbabwe has developed a Zimbabwe Diamond Policy with the intention of maximizing revenue from our diamonds at the same time ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from the mineral resources. The Zimbabwe Diamond Policy has a 10% quota for local cutting and polishing companies. This entails a portion of diamonds for purchase by local diamond traders to undertake value-addition processes. As such this inclusive approach has enabled our citizens to establish cutting and polishing businesses.

“In terms of community development, the Zimbabwe Diamond Policy has a provision for Community Share Ownership Trust (CSOT) as a way of giving our diamond communities shareholding in the diamond sector. Recently the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC), which is a state diamond miner declared a dividend to the Marange community being guided by the Diamond Policy alluded to. The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development led an initiative that conducted a Responsible Mining Audit to ascertain companies’ compliance with mining and other legislative requirements. This exercise is a testament to the need for sustainable mining practices countrywide,” Hon Soda said.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 09 November 2023

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 09 November 2023

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram today 09 November 2023.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$59.52/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$58.89g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$58.26/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$57.63/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$56.69/g
FIRE ASSAY CASH US$59.84/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.

Get Connected to the Large-Scale Mining Industry Leaders

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Get Connected to the Large-Scale Mining Industry Leaders

The large-scale mining industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the Zimbabwean economy, supplying essential resources for various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, and technology.

To connect with the key players and men/women responsible for running the day-to-day Mining operations at Large-scale mines in Zimbabwe, attending the Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ) AGM and Conference 2023 is a must. This year, the event is scheduled from the 16th to the 19th of November 2023, promising an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your products and services and engage with industry giants.

The Significance of the AMMZ AGM and Conference

The AMMZ AGM and Conference is an annual gathering that brings together Mine managers, mining professionals, government representatives, equipment suppliers, and service providers. The event offers a unique platform for sharing knowledge, discussing industry trends, and exploring business opportunities. With the mining industry in Zimbabwe continuously evolving, this event serves as a critical driver of growth and collaboration.

According to the AMMZ Vice President Engineer (Eng) Abel Makura the AGM and Conference is an clear opportunity network and collaborate with Mine Managers and professionals in the mining industry.

“The objective of the conference is to provide a platform for all Mine Managers, professionals and suppliers to share knowledge, network and collaborate in the endeavour to promote the Zimbabwean Mining Industry,” Eng Makura said.

Networking with the real miners

One of the standout features of the AMMZ AGM and Conference is the opportunity for service providers and equipment suppliers to network with industry leaders. The event typically attracts top mining Executives, government officials, and experts in various fields related to mining. Whether you’re looking to establish partnerships, gain insights into industry trends, or simply foster valuable connections, this event is the ideal place to do so.

The value of rubbing shoulders with industry giants cannot be understated, as it can open doors to new business opportunities, collaborations, and invaluable knowledge sharing.

Showcasing Your Products and Services

For companies operating in the mining sector or providing products and services to this industry, the AMMZ AGM and Conference provides an exceptional platform to showcase your offerings. With an engaged audience of top class mining professionals, your business can gain exposure and generate interest in what you have to offer. From mining equipment to technology solutions, this is the ideal place to put your products and services in the spotlight.

Eng Makura said suppliers and service provider are also afforded the opportunity to showcase their products and services.

“There will be exhibitions by sponsors and various stakeholders outside the conference room and delegates will have an opportunity to network with various stakeholders. There will be a President’s dinner, bush dinner among other activities that will provide valuable platform for networking.

Learning and Professional Development

In addition to networking and showcasing your products, the AMMZ AGM and Conference offers a rich program of presentations, workshops, and panel discussions. Running under the theme “The Zimbabwean mining landscape – Transition towards the present day 4th IR” these sessions cover a wide range of topics related to the mining industry, including safety, sustainability, emerging technologies, and regulatory updates. Attending these sessions can help you stay at the forefront of industry trends, ensuring that your business remains competitive and compliant with evolving modern standards.

Building a Sustainable Future

Sustainability is a growing concern in the mining industry, and the AMMZ AGM and Conference doesn’t shy away from addressing this critical issue. Sessions on sustainable mining practices, environmental responsibility, and community engagement are a key part of the event. For companies looking to align with global sustainability goals and best practices, this conference provides invaluable information and inspiration.

By attending, you’re not only investing in your business but also contributing to the sustainable growth and development of the mining industry in Zimbabwe. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity to get connected to the large-scale mining industry leaders, and get yourself a copy of the latest issue of Mining Zimbabwe magazine – mark your calendars now!

For more information call Call thembi on 0774 604 262 or Nyasha 0772 639 875

Get tickets AMMZ AGM and Conference tickets –

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfLNLwGl5mLNoJx1H_6pzqfgSSKQzbNzvGrDwscI9te_VJ2fg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR2OZXcNdMMexcerbC3OShlwq1DxragBf0GDyfR7XD6iWyD7TpPF8c4m5J4&pli=1

Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 08 November 2023

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 08 November 2023

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram today 08 November 2023.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$59.57/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$58.94g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$58.31/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$57.67/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$56.73/g
FIRE ASSAY CASH US$59.88/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.

Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 7 November 2023

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Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram 7 November 2023

Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) official gold buying prices/ gram. See the Zimbabwe gold buying prices/ gram today 07 November 2023.

SG 90% AND ABOVE US$60.29/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$59.65g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$59.02/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$58.38/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$57.42/g
FIRE ASSAY CASH US$60.61/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.

ASM leads to the development of industrial linkage through SMEs

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ASM leads to the development of industrial linkage through SMEs

The emergence of the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has led to the development of industrial linkages through small to medium enterprises (SMEs) which have found a niche in manufacturing mining equipment and consumable supply, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development Hon Zhemu Soda said at the Mine Entra small to medium scale mining conference on Friday.

Rudairo Mapuranga

During the 26th edition of the Mining Engineering and Transport Expo (Mine Entra) 2023 held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) held a small to a medium conference where the Minister of Mines was the guest of honour.

Speaking at the ZMF Mine Entra Conference Minister Soda said the ASM has a lot of potential but its progress is hampered by vast challenges that include inadequate funding, equipment, skills, technology and lack of business acumen in some cases.

Minister Soda encouraged all ASMs to join under one umbrella body and applauded ZMF for bringing the ASM sector together.

“As I toured the exhibitions during this edition of Mine Entra, I noted with gratitude that, the emergence of the ASM sector has led to the development of industrial linkages through SMEs which have found a niche in manufacturing mining equipment and supply of chemicals.

“Let me hasten to highlight that artisanal miners have the potential to produce much more and their progress is hampered by a lot of challenges that include inadequate funding, equipment, skills, technology and lack of business acumen in some cases.

“In order to deal with the complexity of artisanal mining and fully realize their economic impact, the artisanal and small-scale miners are encouraged to formalize their operations and continue to unite under umbrella bodies. This enhances the self-governance of the ASM sector and enables miners to speak with one voice in engagements with various stakeholders including Government. I, therefore, applaud various mining groups for joining together under one umbrella body, the ZMF,” the Minister said.

Mine Entra 2024 set for July, exhibitors express satisfaction

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Mine Entra 2024 set for July, exhibitors express satisfaction

The 27th edition of the mining, engineering and transport expo (Mine Entra) 2024 has been set for July with companies stating their desire to exhibit next year due to the overwhelming business opportunities from this year’s exhibition.

Rudairo Mapuranga

Mine Entra 2023 was initially set for 28-30 June in line with the usual calendar before being shifted to November to make the way for the 2023 general elections. Speaking at the Mine Entra 2023 Conference and Official Opening at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) on Thursday, ZITF Company board chairman, Mr Busisa Moyo said next year the expo will be going back to its traditional slot of Mid-year.

“Mine Entra 2023 is the second post-pandemic edition of the trade show after we missed two consecutive editions during the peak Covid era. Many wondered whether the show would be able to make a comeback or would be one of the pandemic’s fatalities. We are pleased to report that indeed the show has made a rebound and enjoyed strong industry support.

“As organisers, we hope to see this upward trend continue next year when the show goes back to its regular slot in July. Our plans for the show include a massive expansion drive that will see it grow to compete in the league of regional giants such as Electra Mining and Bauma CON Expo Africa. We shall therefore be engaging our counterparts from the regional exhibitions and events industry on strategic partnership opportunities for mutual growth and benefit,” Moyo said.

Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe Star Delta Electrix Business Development Manager Kundiso Chimbima said MineEntra 2023 has established a lot of exposure for her company and discovered that the show was worthy for her company to exhibit next year.

“The MineEntra experience has been very fulfilling in the sense that Star Delta has got a lot of exposure, especially through the new technology that we are pushing which is our oil regeneration plant. We have seen a lot of stakeholders the engineers, mine managers, the buyers interested in doing business with us,” Kundiso Chimbima said.

The Managing Director of Fire Dust Control Africa, Mr Willem Van Der Nest said his company was overwhelmed by the response from mining companies and is looking forward to coming back next year.

“It is the first time we came to MineEntra I can honestly say that we were overwhelmed by the interest of the people in our product, it was money well spent we look forward to coming next year again,” Van Der Nest said.

Fire Dust Control Africa deals in fire detection and support.

Hems AfriEngineeringing neer Business Development Manager Oscar Msowa said the MineEntra has been fulfilling for his company as they have managed to reach mines they were not able to do business with and also manage to re-engage with other mines.

“We are happy, we got contacts of us of the mines we were not able to reach and it was an eye opener we were also able to reengage with other guys we had done business with. Overally, we are happy and definitely coming back next year,” Oscar Msowa said.

“The MineEntra was quite helpful, we were able to get in touch with the lithium miners, gold miners, and even third-party players. We are coming back next year,” Joseph Mandara a Mining Sales Representative from Acol Chemical said.

AMMZ AGM and Conference 2023 gains momentum

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AMMZ AGM and Conference 2023 gains momentum

The upcoming Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference 2023 is gaining significant momentum as more attendees are confirming their participation.

The event, which is scheduled to take place in exactly ten days in Victoria Falls brings together Mine Managers of large-scale Mines in Zimbabwe and also provides an excellent opportunity to network and establish valuable connections with the “real Miners”.

Running under the theme “The Zimbabwean mining landscape, Transition toward the present day 4IR” the event will see high-profile speakers and panellists presenting at the conference with Chamber of Mines President, Thomas Gono, announced as the guest of honour.

Over 1800 individuals have expressed interest in attending on Mining Zimbabwe’s Facebook page and the country’s sole Gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) has also confirmed attendance.

Leading Banks, insurance companies and service providers also expressed interest and made enquiries about the event at the recently ended Mine Entra 2023 Exhibition.

The AGM is another significant aspect of the event, providing an opportunity for AMMZ members to voice their opinions, vote on important matters, and elect new board members. The AGM will see the a new President and his/her Vice elected into office to serve a two year term.

Mine Managers

Mine Managers are responsible for strategising, coordinating, and overseeing the operations of a Mine. They are in charge of forecasting mine productions, monitoring the mine’s development and tunnelling processes, ensuring the quality of extracted minerals, rock, and stone, and conducting safety inspections within the mine.

In a nut shell, Mine Managers are men and women responsible for running the day-to-day activities of a Mine.

Responsibilities of a Mine Manager

The responsibilities of a Mine manager include:

Supervision of mining operations

A mine manager is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient extraction of minerals from the mine they are responsible for. This involves overseeing various activities such as drilling, blasting, and excavation while adhering to health and safety regulations and environmental standards.

Planning and organising

A mine manager develops and implements strategic plans for smooth mine operations, including resource allocation, budgeting, and scheduling. They establish production targets, monitor progress, and make neccessary adjustments to meet set objectives.

Staff management

A mine manager is responsible for recruiting, training, and managing the mine staff. This includes hiring skilled workers, providing necessary training programs, and ensuring proper supervision to maintain a productive workforce.

Health and safety

Safety is a top priority in mining operations, and the mine manager plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment. They must ensure that proper safety procedures are followed, conduct regular inspections, and implement corrective measures as needed.

Environmental compliance

Mining activities can have potential environmental impacts, and it is the mine manager’s responsibility to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They oversee proper waste management, minimize pollution, and implement sustainable practices to minimize the mine’s ecological footprint.

Stakeholder management

Mine managers often interact with various stakeholders, including government officials, local communities, and suppliers. They maintain positive relationships, address concerns, and ensure effective communication to maintain social license to operate.

Risk management

The mine manager identifies and assesses potential risks associated with mining operations. They develop strategies to mitigate these risks, including maintaining proper safety protocols, implementing emergency response plans, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Financial management

As the mine manager, they are responsible for managing the financial aspects of the operation. This includes budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting to ensure profitability and sustainability.

ZDAMWU, CNRG call on Murowa to pay its workers

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ZDAMWU, CNRG call on Murowa to pay its workers

The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union(ZDMWU) and the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) have called on struggling RioZim associate, RMZ Murowa to address the pressing labour disputes, wage issues, and poor working conditions at its diamond mine in Chivi.

It is alleged that Murowa Diamond’s salaries were supposed to be paid to its workers to cover salary disputes at RioZim-owned Renco Mine, as of 06 November 2023 all workers below the supervisor got half salaries, and supervisors and seniours got nothing.

CNRG and ZDAMWU in a press statement said they have noted with grave concern ongoing labour and salary disputes which have culminated in the imminent downing of tools by mine workers at Murowa Diamonds in Zvishavane.

The ZDAMWU and CNRG said they are calling upon Murowa Diamonds to address the challenges faced by its workers. The two organisations said Murowa Diamonds must take immediate action to address the pressing labour disputes, wage issues, and poor working conditions. They said that Murowa Diamonds is a member of the Natural Diamond Council, which aims ‘to promote the positive and sustainable development of the global diamond sector.’ Certainly, such high standards cannot be attained when welfare is neglected. The daily risks taken by workers to liberate diamonds from the belly of the earth must be honoured and fairly renumerated.

“It is noteworthy that productivity by mine workers at Murowa Diamonds has been at full capacity with the company operating at full throttle. However, this has not translated to salary disbursements and other benefits for the workers. This clearly demonstrates that the welfare of workers is not a priority for Murowa Diamonds. What matters to them are profits generated from labor. The non-payment of salaries is only but one of the challenges afflicting Murowa Diamonds.

“Below is a full list of the concerns raised by the workers:

1. Non-payment of salaries
2. 14/7 roaster that has not been ratified.
3. Short term fixed term contracts –mostly 1 month-
4. Non-functioning of the works council
5. Non-functional transport system
6. Poor salary scales against the proceeds from minerals being mined.
7. The MIPF pension fund which they rely on has not helped the workers in any way and workers are agitated for a defined pension fund for the diamond sector.

“This has largely exposed mine to the most important stakeholders in this diamond value chain. Workers are struggling with meeting very basic family needs such as buying food, paying school fees and covering medical expenses. In addition, we are equally concerned with the plight of female mine workers who become more vulnerable when working in such desperate conditions.

“This can lead to increased stress and anxiety, and a decline in the overall quality of life for the workers and their dependents and yet is very avoidable.

“CNRG and ZDAMWU are aware of the upcoming Kimberley Process Plenary meeting to take place in Victoria Falls from the 6th to the 10th of November. The Kimberley Process is increasingly giving a listening ear to the plight of diamond mine workers and communities.

“Protecting the welfare of mineworkers is a crucial function of trade unions and CSOs and as ZDAMWU and CNRGwe will continuously and vigorously advocate for working conditions at the diamond-producing mine.

“We will not rest until diamond mine workers at Murowa Diamonds and other diamond extraction companies receive their dues on time and continue to advocate for standard working conditions, above-board collective bargaining processes, institution of works councils and general improvement in operational environment for a conducive working atmosphere for diamond mine workers,” ZDAMWU and CNRG said.

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