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Thompson Mutezo – Operations Executive Muriel Mine

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Thompson Mutezo – Operations Executive Muriel Mine

With more than three decades of hands-on experience across exploration, mine development and operations, Thompson Mutezo stands out as one of Zimbabwe’s most accomplished mining professionals. A seasoned geologist by training, Mutezo has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the country’s most significant gold operations, successfully navigating volatile commodity cycles while delivering operational excellence.

In this interview, Mutezo shares insights into his professional journey, the strategic relationship between Pan African Mining and Ever Rising Resources, the technical innovations behind Muriel Mine’s landmark dump retreatment operation, and his vision for the future of mining in Zimbabwe.

Who is Thompson Mutezo?

I am a seasoned Geologist with over 30 years of experience. I’ve had the privilege of working with various mining companies in the region, exploring for gold and navigating complex business cycles. My journey with Pan African Mining began in 2013, rising to become the Group Exploration Manager. In 2021, I took on the role of Mine Manager at Muriel Mine, where I led a plant expansion program and drove engineering innovations to improve production efficiency. Later in 2024, I transitioned to Operations Executive at Ever Rising Resources, focusing on optimising production and managing costs.

Explain the relationship between Pan African Mining and Ever Rising Resources.

Pan African Mining established Ever Rising Resources as a special-purpose vehicle to raise capital for Muriel Mine’s dump retreatment project. This strategic partnership has enabled us to commission a state-of-the-art plant, optimising gold recovery and extending the mine’s life.

What are the key operational strategies you’ve implemented to optimise production efficiency while managing cost?

As the Operations Executive, my focus is on integrating technology, financial discipline, and people empowerment to drive sustainable growth. At Muriel Mine, I led initiatives to improve metallurgical efficiency, optimise reagent usage, and leverage data analytics. At Ever Rising, I’ve implemented production optimisation standards, driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the dump retreatment operation.

This is the largest dump retreatment operation in the country. Could you walk us through the technical processes involved and the innovations that make this project stand out?

Our dump retreatment operation is a testament to innovation and efficiency. We’ve implemented a high-volume, low-cost model, utilising hydrosluicing and CIL processes to maximise gold recovery. Our team has overcome complex metallurgical challenges, ensuring optimal recovery rates and minimal environmental impact.

What are the main metallurgical challenges associated with reclaiming and processing historical tailings, and how has your team addressed them to ensure optimal recovery rates?

Historical tailings present unique challenges, including ore variability and preg-robbing. We’ve addressed these through targeted interventions, such as converting to a full CIL plant and introducing pre-aeration stages. These innovations have improved leach kinetics and stabilised recovery.

From an exploration and resource evaluation perspective, how do you approach the assessment and classification of historical dumps compared to primary ore deposits?

We recognise historical dumps as known resources, focusing on understanding their composition, variability and metallurgical complexities. Our approach combines geological expertise with advanced data analytics, ensuring accurate assessment and optimal recovery.

Environmental sustainability is increasingly central to mining operations. What rehabilitation or environmental management frameworks has Muriel Mine adopted?

We’re committed to responsible mining practices, prioritising environmental sustainability and rehabilitation. Our frameworks include lined TSFs, cyanide detoxification, process water recycling and progressive rehabilitation, aligning with UN SDGs and industry best practices.

What is the future of Muriel Mine after the Dumps?

Muriel Mine is poised for a strategic return to run-of-mine operations, leveraging our extensive exploration program and expertise. We’re committed to extending the mine’s legacy while driving sustainable growth and community development.

What advice would you offer to young geologists and managers entering the industry today?

I advise young professionals to blend field expertise with digital tools, becoming versatile leaders in mining. Stay curious, innovative, and committed to sustainability, and you’ll drive the industry’s future success.

Your parting shots?

Exploration is the foundation of the mining industry. Without it, there are no new mines, no production, and no revenue. I urge industry leaders to prioritise exploration, investing in the future of mining and national economic growth.

Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 24 December 2025

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Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 24 December 2025

Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 24 December 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

1 oz = 31.1035 g

CategoryPrice ($/g)Price ($/oz)
SG 90% and above135.184,204.97
SG 85% and above but below 90%133.754,160.50
SG 80% and above but below 85%132.324,116.02
SG 75% and above but below 80%130.894,071.55
Sample 5g and above but below 10g128.744,004.67
Fire Assay CASH135.894,226.76

 

Note: The Fire Assay cash price applies to gold above 100g, with no sample deduction.

A sample of not more than 10g is deducted for the Fire Assay Transfer price.

Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 22 December 2025

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Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 22 December 2025

Gold buying prices in Zimbabwe per gram/ ounce, 22 December 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

1 oz = 31.1035 g

CategoryPrice ($/g)Price ($/oz)
SG 90% and above131.784,099.22
SG 85% and above but below 90%130.394,055.97
SG 80% and above but below 85%128.994,012.41
SG 75% and above but below 80%127.603,969.17
Sample 5g and above but below 10g125.513,904.13
Fire Assay CASH132.484,121.01

 

Note: The Fire Assay cash price applies to gold above 100g, with no sample deduction.

A sample of not more than 10g is deducted for the Fire Assay Transfer price.

Kambamura attains Key Business Optimisation Certificate from AusIMM

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Kambamura attains Key Business Optimisation Certificate from AusIMM

The Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Dr. Polite Kambamura, graduated with a professional certificate in business optimisation from a leading global institute, providing him with a formal, contemporary framework to advance his agenda for the nation’s critical mining sector, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The credential is seen as a direct asset in implementing his plans for strategic investment, sector formalisation, and community-focused development.

Minister Kambamura recently received the Associate Certificate in Business Optimisation for Mining from The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). This new certification will help him by validating expertise in high-level strategic areas critical for modern resource governance, including financial optimisation, performance measurement, risk management, and continuous improvement planning.

Analysts note the certified skills correspond directly to the minister’s stated policy pillars. The focus on “strategic optimisation” and “KPI reporting” will help him scrutinise “quality investors” and move beyond raw production targets to measuring sustainable value creation. Similarly, the modules on “benchmarking” and “continuous improvement” provide a systematic approach to formalising the artisanal and small-scale mining sector—a key priority for the minister and his new role as Patron of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF).

“This award is timely,” noted a sector economist. “It provides a technical backbone to the minister’s vision. Understanding cut-off grade theory and strategic decision-making is essential for policies that maximise national benefit from finite mineral resources, ensuring communities see lasting value.”

The certification’s emphasis on balancing long-term strategy with business targets will help him align the mining sector’s performance with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals. The awarded skills in monitoring key performance measures and developing improvement initiatives offer a proven methodology to translate the sector’s potential into measurable progress toward an upper-middle-income economy.

For stakeholders, from large investors to small-scale miners, the minister’s newly certified expertise signals leadership equipped with modern analytical tools. As Minister Kambamura begins his tenure, this award strengthens his capacity to guide the mining sector toward greater efficiency, investment quality, and shared prosperity.

Blessing Hungwe Crowned Global Influencer of the Year at Women in Mining Awards

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Blessing Hungwe Crowned Global Influencer of the Year at Women in Mining Awards

Zimbabwean miner and women’s empowerment champion Blessing Hungwe was named Global Influencer of the Year at the 2nd Annual Women in Mining Awards, an accolade that honoured her impact and leadership in the mining sector locally and across the region, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

Organised by Women Empowerment in Mining Zimbabwe (WEMZ), the awards, which attracted a record turnout, celebrated women making a mark across the mining sector, from artisanal and small-scale operations to corporate leadership and policy advocacy.

Introducing the award, Dr Chiedza Chipangura, founder of WEMZ, described Hungwe as a trailblazer who is representing women in mining on a global stage.

“I can confidently say that Blessing Hungwe is a true pacesetter, the flag bearer of Zimbabwean women in mining, taking our talent, resilience, and innovation into global boardrooms. She shows that women from Zimbabwe can lead, influence, and make their mark on the world stage, inspiring others to break barriers and claim leadership at every level of the sector.”

Hungwe has built her reputation through years of dedication to artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), expanding operations into gold, chrome, and semi-precious stones.

Beyond her personal success, she has been a leading advocate for women in mining, creating platforms for networking, mentorship, and policy engagement.

Her leadership spans several organisations. She has held senior roles in the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), the Zimbabwe Association of Women in Mining Associations (ZAWIMA), and the African Women in Mining Association (AWIMA).

She currently serves as Regional Knowledge Exchange Coordinator for Anglophone Africa under the World Bank-supported Delve Exchange programme, promoting knowledge sharing and capacity building for ASM operators.

The 2nd Annual Women in Mining Awards underscored the growing visibility of women in the sector, with Hungwe’s recognition standing out as a reminder that Zimbabwean women are not only shaping local mining communities but also making their presence felt in global boardrooms.

Women in Mining Honoured as Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Empowerment Across the Value Chain

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Women in Mining Honoured as Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Empowerment Across the Value Chain

Zimbabwe is reinforcing its commitment to women’s empowerment across the mining value chain, recognising that their full participation is crucial for both sector growth and national development, Mining Zimbabwe reports.

By Ryan Chigoche

The message was emphasised at the 2nd Annual Women in Mining Awards, organised by Women Empowerment in Mining Zimbabwe (WEMZ), which attracted a record turnout and celebrated women making a mark across the industry.

Women in Mining Awards Zimbabwe

In a sector traditionally dominated by men, women have increasingly moved beyond support roles in recent years, taking up leadership positions in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), corporate mining operations, and community development initiatives.

Their involvement is driving economic empowerment in mining communities across the country, showing that gender inclusion is not only socially important but also essential for the sector’s growth and sustainability. Yet, despite these gains, structural, cultural, and financial barriers still limit the full participation of women in mining.

Speaking at the awards, Lilian Matsika Takaendesa, Chief Director at the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and SME Development, underlined the importance of addressing these barriers:

“When you exclude more than 52 per cent of the population from building the nation, you cannot build a nation. That is why we are committed to ensuring women participate fully across the mining value chain. Women have historically faced structural, cultural, and financial barriers, but the government is working tirelessly to dismantle these obstacles. Gender equality is not just about women; it is about working hand in hand with men as partners and supportive change agents to ensure no one is left behind.”

Women in Mining Awards Zimbabwe

Launched last year, the Women in Mining Awards honour women excelling in exploration, extraction, value addition, environmental management, and policy advocacy, as well as men and institutions that have championed gender-inclusive practices.

Organisers said the second edition exceeded expectations in terms of attendance, with nominees recognised across operational excellence, mentorship, innovation, and community impact categories.

Founder of WEMZ, Chiedza Chipangura, said she was overwhelmed by the strong attendance.

“Seeing so many women come together, sharing their successes and challenges, was truly inspiring. This awards platform is a reminder that together, we are unstoppable. We will continue to mentor, support, and empower women at every level of the mining value chain, breaking barriers, claiming leadership, and shaping the future of Zimbabwe’s mining sector,” Chipangura said.

Beyond recognition, the event also served as a platform to encourage more women to enter mining and to remind the sector of the need to dismantle structural barriers that have historically limited participation.

MMCZ Records 10% Mineral Sales Growth Amid Global Market Challenges

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MMCZ Records 10% Mineral Sales Growth Amid Global Market Challenges

The country’s mineral marketing agent, except for gold and silver, the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), has reported a robust 10% year-on-year increase in mineral sales volumes for the first eleven months of 2025, defying a complex global commodities landscape, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Cumulatively to November 2025, MMCZ facilitated the sale of 4.4 million metric tonnes (MT) of minerals, valued at US$3.04 billion. This compares favourably with the 4.0 million MT valued at US$2.80 billion achieved in the same period in 2024, representing a 9% growth in total export value.

The performance was announced by Acting Deputy General Manager (Marketing) Gumisayi Nenzou, speaking on behalf of MMCZ General Manager Dr Nomusa Jane Moyo at the Corporation’s 2025 End-of-Year Media Soiree.

The bulk of export earnings was anchored by platinum group metals (PGM) matte, which alone generated US$1.3 billion from 35,818 MT. This reflects a significant improvement in revenue, up from US$875.6 million last year, driven by stronger global prices for platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

“Despite evolving local dynamics, MMCZ recorded steady operational performance over the past 11 months,” stated Nenzou. “The overall improvement in PGM earnings was largely driven by stronger global prices.”

A standout feature of the export basket was the growing prominence of lithium-bearing minerals. Spodumene contributed a significant 15.75% of total export earnings, underscoring Zimbabwe’s strategic positioning in the global battery metals market.

High-carbon ferrochrome accounted for 10.96% of revenue, with 392,775 MT sold for US$333.1 million, marking an 11% increase in volume.

Coke varieties saw a 7% rise in sales volume, contributing 5.36% to total revenue.

PGM concentrate, while still a top performer contributing 8.63% of revenue, experienced a decline compared to the higher volumes and revenue (US$494.4 million) recorded in the prior year.

The results highlight the resilience of Zimbabwe’s mining sector and the effective marketing role of MMCZ in navigating price volatility to secure increased sales volumes and greater value for the nation’s minerals.

Strategic Conversations Zimbabwe Must Lead at Mining Indaba 2026

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Strategic Conversations Zimbabwe Must Lead at Mining Indaba 2026

Mining Indaba remains Africa’s premier platform for dialogue, dealmaking, and policy alignment in the global mining sector.

Kelvin Sungiso

For Zimbabwe, a country endowed with significant mineral resources and increasing relevance in the global critical minerals supply chain, the investment forum presents a pivotal opportunity. Beyond promotion, it offers a platform to reposition Zimbabwe as a stable, forward-looking, and investment-friendly mining destination anchored in sustainability and value addition.

Zimbabwe hosts substantial reserves of lithium, platinum group metals, gold, chrome, nickel, and other strategic minerals critical to global industrialisation and the energy transition. As demand accelerates for battery minerals and low-carbon technologies, investors are seeking jurisdictions that offer regulatory clarity, transparent governance, and responsible mining practices.

The investment indaba provides Zimbabwe with a global stage to articulate its mining vision, address legacy concerns, and demonstrate tangible progress in policy reform. Effective participation requires deliberate engagement in conversations that directly respond to investor expectations while aligning with national development objectives.

Zimbabwe’s delegation, led by the new Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Engineer Polite Kambamura, Fidelity Gold Refiners (FGR), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, the Chamber of Mines, and policymakers, must engage directly with international investors, legal experts, and investment promotion agencies to communicate progress on legislative reforms, licensing processes, and fiscal stability.

Key concerns to address include transparency in mineral rights allocation, consistency in taxation frameworks, and clear timelines for approvals. A credible narrative on reforms and dispute resolution mechanisms is essential to rebuilding investor confidence and reducing perceived country risk.

Zimbabwe’s lithium and rare earth endowment places it at the centre of the global energy transition. The investment conference offers an opportunity to shift conversations from raw mineral exports towards structured partnerships with battery manufacturers, electric vehicle (EV) supply chains, downstream processors and more.

Engagements should focus on offtake agreements, joint ventures, and investment incentives that promote local beneficiation and industrial development. By positioning itself as a reliable long-term supplier with value addition ambitions, Zimbabwe can secure sustainable investment while maximising economic returns.

The future of mining is technology-driven. Zimbabwe’s participation should include mining executives from key mining houses such as Zimbabwe Platinum Mines, Mimosa, Kuvimba Mining House, Namib, Caledonia Mining, and Dallaglio, among others; innovation stakeholders such as the Zimbabwe School of Mines, the Chamber of Mines, the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), the University of Zimbabwe, and the National University of Science and Technology, among others; and technical experts engaging with technology providers and geoscience firms.

Discussions should explore digitalisation, automation, geospatial technologies, and skills development to improve productivity, safety, and competitiveness. Demonstrating openness to innovation signals readiness for modern, efficient, and sustainable mining operations.

A successful engagement requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary delegation comprising government leadership (Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Tourism), senior mining executives, regulatory and legal experts, ESG advisers, and investment promotion agencies such as ZIDA. Inclusion of finance and trade representatives further strengthens Zimbabwe’s ability to convert dialogue into bankable projects.

If approached strategically, the Indaba can yield concrete outcomes, new investment leads, strategic alliances in critical minerals, improved international perception, and stronger regional collaboration. Importantly, it offers Zimbabwe a chance to reposition its mining sector narrative from one defined by uncertainty to one anchored in reform, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

Mining Indaba 2026 is not merely a networking event for Zimbabwe; it is a strategic inflection point. Success will depend on the quality of conversations led, the credibility of commitments made, and the ability to translate engagement into long-term partnerships. By focusing on regulatory certainty, critical minerals strategy, sustainability, and innovation, Zimbabwe can lay the foundation for a resilient and globally competitive mining sector.

Caledonia Mining Welcomes Zimbabwe’s Revised Fiscal Terms, Sees No Financial Impact

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Caledonia Mining Welcomes Zimbabwe’s Revised Fiscal Terms, Sees No Financial Impact

Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc (NYSE American, AIM and VFEX: CMCL) has welcomed significant amendments to the country’s proposed 2026 National Budget, stating that the revised royalty and tax terms should result in no change to the financial outlook for its portfolio of assets in the country, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The announcement marks a positive resolution to concerns the company raised just weeks ago about proposals that threatened the profitability of its existing mine and a major future project.

Key Revisions to the Budget Proposals

On December 17, 2025, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance announced substantial modifications to the fiscal measures affecting gold miners. The changes directly address the three main concerns Caledonia had previously identified:

Royalty Rate Threshold Significantly Increased

Previous proposal: Increase the royalty rate from 5% to 10% when the gold price exceeds US$2,500 per ounce.

Revised proposal: The higher 10% rate will now only apply if the gold price exceeds US$5,000 per ounce.

Capital Expenditure Deduction Rule Maintained

A proposed change to spread tax deductions for capital projects over their lifetime, which would have impacted cash flow, has been withdrawn. The current 100% upfront deduction remains in place.

Withholding Tax on Offshore Loans Withdrawn

A proposed 15% withholding tax on interest for offshore loans has been withdrawn. Caledonia noted that this measure would have adversely affected its plans to fund the Bilboes Gold Project with offshore debt.

Caledonia’s Assessment and Leadership Commentary

The company stated that these revised proposals, which are expected to be enacted before year-end, “should result in no change in the financial outlook for Caledonia’s portfolio of assets in Zimbabwe, provided the gold price remains below US$5,000 per ounce”.

Mark Learmonth, Chief Executive Officer of Caledonia, commented on the government’s move:

“The 2026 National Budget of Zimbabwe is yet to be enacted into law. However, we welcome the revised provisions announced this week, which we believe demonstrate the Government of Zimbabwe’s support for the mining sector and the development of future mining projects in the country.”

This statement contrasts with the company’s tone on December 1, when it noted that the original proposals would lower profitability at its Blanket Mine and required an assessment of the impact on the Bilboes Gold Project.

The swift revision of the budget terms is seen as a constructive outcome of dialogue between the mining industry and the government. For Caledonia, it removes immediate fiscal uncertainty and supports the economics of its key growth project, Bilboes, which is poised to become one of Zimbabwe’s largest gold mines.

The company maintains a long-standing operating presence in Zimbabwe through its flagship Blanket Mine and continues to engage with local authorities.

WEMZ Awards to Honour Women Leading Sustainable Mining

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WEMZ Awards to Honour Women Leading Sustainable Mining

All is set for the second edition of the Women Empowerment in Mining Zimbabwe (WEMZ) Awards, taking place today, with the spotlight firmly on women who are driving change in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, particularly within small-to-medium-scale operations, Mining Zimbabwe reports.

By Ryan Chigoche

Held under the theme “Green horizons – empowered women building inclusive sustainable futures in mining,” the awards come at a time when women are increasingly visible in hands-on mining activities that sustain livelihoods and local economies.

Across artisanal, small and medium-scale mining, women are moving beyond survival mining into more organised, productive and environmentally responsible operations. This year’s ceremony is expected to recognise those efforts while pushing the conversation beyond recognition towards lasting empowerment.

According to the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining (IGF), women comprise roughly 30% to 50% of the global artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) workforce, with higher representation in parts of Africa and variation by country and commodity. This makes the WEMZ Awards’ focus on grassroots mining particularly significant, highlighting Zimbabwean women who are shaping sustainable and inclusive mining practices at the local level.

“The WEMZ Awards, held under the banner ‘Green horizons – empowered women building inclusive sustainable futures in mining’, are more than praise; they are a roadmap. They spotlight women already shaping a cleaner, fairer mining sector and remind policymakers that the 2026 Budget and NDS 2 will only deliver inclusive growth if deliberate, gender-smart measures channel those national reforms directly into women’s hands,” WEMZ programmes coordinator Nakai Taderera told Mining Zimbabwe.

As women increasingly lead cooperatives, take on technical and operational responsibilities, invest in basic mineral processing and formalise their activities, public recognition through the awards, the association says, helps validate this progress while encouraging more women to scale up and operate sustainably.

Sustainability is a central pillar of this year’s awards.

The “Green horizons” focus highlights women who are adopting safer and cleaner mining practices, including land rehabilitation, improved waste management and reduced environmental harm.

WEMZ says these examples demonstrate that responsible mining is achievable even at smaller scales when women are supported with the right tools and policies.

As anticipation builds ahead of tomorrow’s ceremony, WEMZ says the awards are intended to send a clear message: empowering women in small- and medium-scale mining is essential to building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient mining sector in Zimbabwe.

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