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Is Zimbabwe Not Ready for a Nationwide Geophysical Survey?

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Is Zimbabwe Not Ready for a Nationwide Geophysical Survey?

Despite the surging global demand for critical minerals spurred by the green energy revolution, Zimbabwe continues to lag behind regional counterparts in deploying modern geological mapping systems essential for investment attraction.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

In stark contrast, neighbouring Zambia has already embarked on a US$100 million nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey to bolster exploration, transparency, and economic governance of its mineral wealth.

In July 2024, Zambia officially launched its ambitious project in collaboration with global smart mapping giant Xcalibur. The survey covers all ten provinces, utilising advanced technologies including airborne magnetics, radiometrics, and gravity gradiometry offering subsurface imaging to depths of several kilometres. The data is expected to reach 70% completion by the end of 2025.

Zambia’s Ministry of Mines integrated the aerial data into its cadastre system at inception—pre-zoning mineral claims, reducing disputes, and increasing investor confidence through early access to validated geological data. Beyond just data acquisition, Zambia has emphasised robust quality control, centralised data governance, and transparent public access. Skills transfer has also been prioritised to empower local professionals in geophysics, data processing, and mapping technologies.

Asked whether Zimbabwe is considering a similar model, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Dr. Polite Kambamura, replied briefly: “Soon we will be starting ours.”

While this signals intent, it raises more questions than it answers. Zimbabwe, a country with one of Africa’s most diversified mineral portfolios—platinum, lithium, gold, and rare earths—has yet to communicate a clear timeline or structure for a nationwide survey.

Interestingly, Zimbabwe is not without capacity. Local geophysical company AeroSurveys Airborne Mineral Exploration (Aerosurveys), a leading provider of airborne and ground geophysical surveys, already offers world-class solutions including aeromagnetic, electromagnetic, and radiometric surveys. With proven experience across Africa and access to advanced sensor technology, AeroSurveys could play a pivotal role if Zimbabwe were to finally launch its own nationwide mapping initiative.

The current system still relies heavily on manual pegging, outdated paper maps, and underfunded survey departments at the provincial level. In a time where data is the new gold, this approach is increasingly incompatible with a US$40 billion mining industry ambition. Integrating modern geospatial data with the Mining Cadastre System would de-risk investments, enhance claim validations, and build investor trust.

If Zambia—formerly less aggressive in mineral exploration—can attract hundreds of millions in exploration investment through geophysical openness and technology, Zimbabwe should not be left behind. As other nations digitise and map their wealth from the sky, Zimbabwe must decide: will it lead in resource intelligence or continue to walk blind into a high-stakes exploration era?

With local firms like Aerosurveys on standby and political will seemingly present, the question remains: Is Zimbabwe not ready—or simply waiting too long—to take off?

Botswana Pushes for Control of De Beers as Anglo Exit Looms

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Botswana Pushes for Control of De Beers as Anglo Exit Looms

As the global diamond industry navigates a downturn marked by falling demand and rising competition from lab-grown stones, Botswana is making bold moves to secure its stake in the diamond value chain. The country has declared its interest in taking a controlling stake in De Beers, potentially shifting the future of the world’s most recognisable diamond company—and raising serious questions about the balance of power between resource-rich African countries and global mining giants.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Botswana’s new president, Duma Boko, is pushing for full control of De Beers’ operations, marketing, and profits, challenging parent company Anglo American, which is currently preparing to offload its 85% shareholding in the iconic diamond producer.

Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, made it clear that the country would not stand by as decisions affecting its most valuable natural resource are made without its input. “President Boko remains resolute in his quest to increase Botswana’s stake in De Beers to ensure Botswana’s full control over this strategic national asset and the entire value chain, including marketing,” Kenewendo said.

This comes after President Boko recently remarked that De Beers was not selling enough diamonds, suggesting that perhaps Botswana should “take over and sell them ourselves.” The remarks have added pressure to an already delicate sale process for Anglo, which faces a deadline in early August to receive formal bids from prospective buyers.

De Beers sources approximately 70% of its total diamond production from Botswana, through the Debswana joint venture, of which Botswana already owns 50%. The government also holds a 15% direct stake in De Beers, while Anglo owns the majority share. Without Botswana’s cooperation, the sale of De Beers becomes practically unviable.

Kenewendo warned that “any sale of the company without our support will be difficult to achieve,” accusing Anglo of failing to involve the government in a transparent or coordinated manner.

The timing of Botswana’s aggressive stance could not be more crucial. Anglo is under pressure to complete its restructuring before year-end, following a rejected £39 billion takeover bid by BHP in 2023. The mining giant is now pursuing a “dual-track” approach—seeking a direct buyer for De Beers or listing it publicly if no satisfactory bids are received.

However, the diamond market is currently facing significant headwinds. Consumer demand has declined in key markets like China, and synthetic diamonds have carved a strong niche. De Beers is reportedly sitting on its largest stockpile since the global financial crisis, making any sale more complex.

The big question now is whether Botswana can raise the capital needed to buy a larger stake—or even take full ownership—of De Beers. While Minister Kenewendo said “financing is not an issue,” analysts remain sceptical. Botswana’s budget deficit is expected to widen to 7.5% by 2026, and although it enjoys an investment-grade credit rating, it lacks experience raising money on international bond markets. The country recently secured a US$300 million loan from the African Development Bank, largely to deal with fiscal shortfalls.

Still, Botswana’s leadership insists that ownership and control over diamonds is non-negotiable. And rightly so—diamonds account for over two-thirds of Botswana’s export earnings.

From a Zimbabwean perspective, Botswana’s push for resource sovereignty offers a timely case study. As Zimbabwe continues to restructure its own diamond sector through entities like ZCDC and promote local beneficiation, the question of who controls the value chain—from mine to market—remains critical.

Botswana is making it clear: Africa is no longer just a source of raw minerals. It wants to control the trade, influence pricing, and capture more of the value. Whether Botswana achieves full ownership or not, this moment signals a continental shift in resource governance—one that Zimbabwean policymakers and miners should follow closely.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 25 July 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 25 July 2025

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today, 25 July 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$102.26/g.
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$101.18/g.
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$100.09/g.
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$99.01/g.
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$97.39/g.

Fire Assay CASH $102.80/g.

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100g; no sample is deducted.

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

A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners).

A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers.

Chamber Urges Govt to Let Miners Exit ZESA for Cheaper IEUG Power

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Chamber Urges Govt to Let Miners Exit ZESA for Cheaper IEUG Power

The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe is urging the government to release miners from ZESA power supply contracts. This would allow them to join the Intensive Energy Users Group (IEUG), as current tariffs remain too high for the mining sector.

By Ryan Chigoche

Since last year, the Chamber has raised concerns about rising electricity tariffs. Mining companies have seen rates jump over 44%, from US$0.0986 per KWh in 2022 to US$0.1421 per KWh in 2024.

This increase has put a lot of pressure on mining operations.

The situation is worse for energy-heavy industries like ferrochrome production, where electricity makes up about 50% of total costs.

At the same time, prices for key minerals have dropped sharply in the past two years. This combination has made many mines unprofitable, with some struggling just to break even.

In its report for the quarter ended April 2025, the Chamber repeated its call for miners to be freed from ZESA contracts. This would give them access to cheaper electricity options, such as through IEUG.

“The electricity tariff for mining companies remained high and unsustainable, impacting negatively on viability. Meanwhile, the Chamber has sought Government’s intervention in ensuring that ZESA releases mining companies from power supply contracts to allow them to access cheaper alternative power from platforms such as IEUG. Government has committed to assist on this matter and the Chamber will follow up on this matter.”

The Intensive Energy Users Group (IEUG) is made up of the country’s largest electricity consumers. These come mainly from the mining, manufacturing, and heavy industry sectors.

IEUG was created to give these users a united voice when dealing with utilities like ZETDC and regulators such as ZERA. The group pushes for stable, cost-reflective tariffs and reliable power supply.

For mining companies that depend on constant electricity, joining IEUG offers several advantages.

These include priority access during load-shedding, collective tariff negotiations, and a chance to influence energy policy. Members also work together on energy projects like solar power and wheeling, where a company’s self-generated power is sent through the national grid for use elsewhere.

However, companies still tied to ZESA supply contracts cannot join IEUG. Membership requires independent power procurement, such as buying from independent power producers or using embedded generation.

Companies must also have the necessary infrastructure, like dedicated feeder lines and smart meters.

Global Coal Demand to Remain Stable Through 2025 and 2026

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Global Coal Demand to Remain Stable Through 2025 and 2026

Global coal demand is expected to remain relatively stable over the next two years, despite notable shifts in major markets during the first half of 2025, according to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) latest Coal Mid-Year report.

By Ryan Chigoche

The report shows that coal use worldwide reached a record high of approximately 8.8 billion tonnes in 2024 — a 1.5% increase from the previous year.

This was largely driven by increased consumption in China, India, Indonesia, and other emerging economies, which more than offset declines recorded in advanced economies such as Europe, North America, and Northeast Asia.

However, some of these dynamics shifted in early 2025. In China and India, coal demand softened, largely due to slower growth in electricity consumption and a surge in renewable energy generation.

In contrast, coal use in the United States surged by around 10%, as robust electricity demand and higher natural gas prices drove a renewed reliance on coal-fired power. Meanwhile, demand in the European Union remained broadly flat, with declining industrial use offset by a rebound in coal-fired electricity generation.

Despite these regional fluctuations, the IEA notes that the structural factors underpinning global coal consumption remain largely unchanged.

As such, it projects a slight increase in global coal demand in 2025, followed by a modest decline in 2026 — bringing overall usage just below the 2024 peak.

This outlook is consistent with the IEA’s Coal 2024 report published last December, though updated figures reflect weaker global economic growth and a renewed policy shift in the United States favouring coal.

Looking at regional forecasts, coal demand in China is expected to decline slightly in 2025 — by less than 1%. In contrast, the United States is forecast to see a 7% increase, while the European Union is projected to record a nearly 2% decline.

“While we have seen contrasting trends in different regions in the first half of 2025, these do not alter the underlying trajectory of global coal demand,” said IEA Director of Energy Markets and Security Keisuke Sadamori.

“We expect the world’s coal consumption to remain broadly flat this year and next, in line with our previous forecast, although short-term fluctuations remain possible in different regions due to weather conditions and the high degree of economic and geopolitical uncertainty. As in past years, global coal trends continue to be shaped overwhelmingly by China, which consumes almost 30% more coal than the rest of the world combined,” Sadamori added.

The report highlights that electricity generation continues to be the primary driver of coal demand globally, particularly in China. However, the industrial sector — especially steel and chemicals — also plays a substantial role in shaping coal use patterns.

Global coal production is projected to reach a new record in 2025, underpinned by continued output growth in China and India as both countries prioritise energy security. However, a slowdown is anticipated in 2026, as rising stockpiles and weakening prices begin to suppress supply.

On the trade front, coal shipments — which have steadily increased in recent years — are expected to contract in 2025 for the first time since the COVID-19 downturn in 2020. A further decline is forecast in 2026, marking the first consecutive two-year drop in global coal trade volumes this century, according to the IEA.

Oversupply has already begun to weigh heavily on prices, which have fallen back to levels last seen in early 2021. This price pressure is squeezing producers across the board.

Indonesia is expected to post the largest drop in output by volume in 2025, while Russian exporters face the most acute economic challenges due to prevailing market conditions.

Zimplats Smelter Expansion to Propel Zimbabwe to Global PGM Leadership – Mnangagwa

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Zimplats Smelter Expansion to Propel Zimbabwe to Global PGM Leadership – Mnangagwa

Zimbabwe is poised to become a global leader in the Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) market, following the successful commissioning of the expanded Zimplats smelter.

By Ryan Chigoche

President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed optimism that the enhanced capacity will not only position the country as a regional hub for PGM processing but also elevate it to the forefront of the global market.

The President made the remarks on July 23, 2025, during the official commissioning ceremony of the Zimplats Smelter Expansion Project and Phase 1A of the 35MW Solar Plant, held at the Selous Metallurgical Complex.

This event marked a major milestone in the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on October 18, 2021, between the Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development and Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Zimplats).

The MOU outlines a roadmap for the sustainable development of integrated PGM projects under Zimplats’ ambitious US$1.8 billion expansion programme.

The smelter expansion and Phase 1 SO₂ Abatement Project represent a US$398 million investment that commenced in December 2021. Remarkably, the project was completed within just 36 months.

Speaking at the launch, President Mnangagwa said:

“This expansion will ensure that Zimbabwe becomes a leader in the global platinum market, as Zimplats has created capacity to toll refine concentrates from third parties. Increasing smelting capacity to over one million ounces of all six elements of the Platinum Group Metals (platinum, palladium, gold, rhodium, ruthenium, and iridium) in converter matte per annum is a significant boost to our value addition efforts in the platinum group metals sector. This increased capacity has the potential to transform Zimbabwe into a regional hub for platinum processing, creating jobs and stimulating downstream industries. I am particularly pleased to note that the expanded smelter has the capacity to accommodate other platinum group metal producers in the country.”

The project saw Hatch serving as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) contractor. A state-of-the-art 38MW furnace was constructed, tripling Zimplats’ smelting capacity to 380,000 tonnes of concentrate per annum—equivalent to 1.09 million ounces of 6E metals.

The scale of the project is staggering: it spans an area the size of 12 football fields and involved thousands of tonnes of materials and hundreds of kilometres of cabling, all brought together to establish a world-class metallurgical facility.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of Mines and Mining Development Winston Chitando praised the plant’s technological advancement and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting sustainable mining operations.

“It is not just the scale that impresses; it is the technological sophistication. From the 6-inline rectangular furnace to the integrated furnace feed controller, digital twinning for managing aisle logistics, flash drying, Pierce-Smith converting, and advanced PLC and SCADA control systems, Zimplats has embraced innovation to achieve unparalleled efficiency and productivity.”

“As Minister of Mines and Mining Development, I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment and sustainable growth. We will continue to support initiatives that promote sustainable mining practices, job creation, and community development,” Chitando added.

In addition to the smelter, the President also commissioned the first phase of Zimplats’ 185MW solar power project on the same day — a bold step toward reducing the mine’s carbon footprint and ensuring energy self-sufficiency.

The 35MW Phase 1A plant, now operational, is part of the company’s broader commitment to sustainability and climate resilience.

Zimplats was widely praised for the dual achievements, which demonstrate not only its engineering excellence but also its alignment with Zimbabwe’s broader beneficiation and energy transition goals.

Together, the smelter expansion and solar plant underscore the strength of public-private partnerships in unlocking value from the country’s vast mineral wealth — while laying the groundwork for long-term economic transformation.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 24 July 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 24 July 2025

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

SG 90% and ABOVE US$103.71/g.
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$102.61/g.
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$101.51/g.
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$100.41/g.
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$98.77/g.

Fire Assay CASH $104.26/g.

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100g; no sample is deducted.

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

A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners).

A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers.

US-China Critical Minerals Tug-of-War Sets Stage for Rare Earth Revival and Deep-Sea Mining Race

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US-China Critical Minerals Tug-of-War Sets Stage for Rare Earth Revival and Deep-Sea Mining Race

In the fierce rivalry between two of the world’s biggest superpowers, the next battleground isn’t land, oil, or even cyberspace — it’s the critical minerals hidden beneath our feet and scattered across the ocean floor. As the United States and China intensify their scramble for strategic resources, rare earths and deep-sea deposits have emerged as the new frontiers of global economic power.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

And as the race accelerates, the rest of the world, including Africa, must carefully watch, understand, and respond to the implications.

This is not just about minerals — it’s about magnets, machines, and the materials that define modern life. It’s about who will control the engines of clean energy, who will build the next generation of electric vehicles, and who will dictate the standards for sustainable extraction in a world that’s desperate to go green, but ill-prepared for the politics of how.

For decades, China has enjoyed a near-monopoly in the rare earth supply chain, refining roughly 90 percent of the world’s output. These are the elements powering everything from wind turbines to fighter jets. And as the clean energy transition accelerates globally, demand is exploding.

But in a dramatic shift, the United States is reasserting itself, driven by growing fears over Chinese dominance. Recent developments in Washington, notably under the Trump administration and beyond, have reignited interest in domestic production, strategic reserves, and controversial ventures such as deep-sea mining. A bold and contentious executive order from Trump cleared the way for American companies to mine the seabed without waiting for global consensus — effectively challenging long-standing international norms governed by the United Nations.

This unilateral move raised eyebrows from all corners of the globe. Environmental scientists and marine biologists warned of irreversible damage to unexplored ecosystems, while Chinese delegates at the International Seabed Authority quickly condemned the decision as a destabilising act of resource nationalism. But for companies like The Metals Company — an ambitious startup with its eyes on the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone — Trump’s directive was an open invitation to stake a claim on polymetallic nodules containing nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese. These are the same metals the world needs to build batteries, wind farms, and the infrastructure of the future.

The irony is thick. In the name of fighting climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, nations are preparing to dig into one of the planet’s last untouched environments. All the while, terrestrial sources of rare earths are being rediscovered, revived, and in some cases, reinvested in — driven largely by escalating demand and the geopolitical need to diversify supply chains away from China.

A recent surge in U.S. rare earth stocks marks a watershed moment. For the first time, a U.S. company focused on rare earths cracked the Top 50 list of the world’s most valuable mining companies. Meanwhile, Apple signed a $500 million deal to source its rare earth magnets domestically — another clear signal that America is serious about reducing its exposure to Chinese-dominated refining capacity.

Across the Pacific, China hasn’t slowed down. If anything, it’s expanding its dominance. According to Mining.com, rare earth magnet exports from China soared 158% following a temporary easing of trade tensions. Beijing has invested billions in refining technology and magnet production, and with demand set to triple over the next decade — thanks to electric vehicles and offshore wind — the stakes have never been higher.

Zimbabwe and other African countries sit on the sidelines of this unfolding geopolitical drama, rich in potential but lacking the infrastructure and capital to leverage their mineral wealth strategically. As the world scrambles for lithium, rare earths, and clean-tech minerals, Africa must decide whether it wants to be a passive supplier of raw material or an active player shaping how, where, and by whom value is added.

The current U.S.-China rivalry offers both opportunity and risk for resource-rich but capacity-constrained nations. On one hand, it opens the door for new partnerships, financing, and technology transfer. On the other, it may deepen dependencies, where African countries become battlegrounds for mineral influence without ever dictating the rules.

The question Zimbabwe and the continent must grapple with is whether we can formulate policies that ensure our resources support our own green industrialisation — or whether we will once again watch others build empires on the back of our minerals. Rare earths and deep-sea treasures are not just commodities — they are the raw DNA of the energy transition. Whoever controls them controls the pace and direction of the future.

In this new era of critical mineral competition, the stakes are planetary. It’s not simply about how much nickel or cobalt you have. It’s about your ability to refine it, regulate it, and reap the economic and social dividends from its use. And while the U.S. and China battle it out on the frontlines, the real opportunity may lie with those who can find a middle path — one that values sovereignty, sustainability, and long-term benefit over short-term extraction.

As Washington digs deeper and Beijing expands faster, Zimbabwe must ask itself: are we preparing to play in this global mineral game — or are we content to be spectators once more?

MMCZ Procures Drones to Thwart Rampant Mineral Smuggling

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MMCZ Procures Drones to Thwart Rampant Mineral Smuggling

The Mineral Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) has introduced drone technology as part of a broader crackdown on rampant mineral smuggling that continues to drain the country of critical export revenues.

By Ryan Chigoche

The State-owned entity says the drones will enhance surveillance, stockpile verification, and movement tracking at production sites, particularly in remote and high-risk mining areas.

The initiative comes amid growing concern over unchecked leakages in high-value minerals, especially lithium and gemstones, among several others under MMCZ’s mandate.

In a statement, MMCZ General Manager Dr. Nomsa Moyo confirmed the development, saying the drones will provide a sharper view of mining operations and support more accurate reconciliation of production figures.

“The drones will allow us to precisely measure volumes of excavated materials and stockpiles,” said Dr. Moyo. “This will enable more accurate reconciliation with declared production figures and help identify discrepancies that may signal smuggling or under-declaration.”

Lithium has seen a sharp rise in global demand due to its use in electric vehicle batteries, while Zimbabwe’s semi-precious gemstones continue to attract strong interest from regional and international buyers. However, large volumes of these resources are believed to be leaving the country unaccounted for, depriving the state of critical revenue.

As part of efforts to tighten controls, MMCZ is also finalising a whistleblower platform to encourage anonymous reporting of mineral theft, under-invoicing, and corruption.

Dr. Moyo stressed that minerals should be exported transparently and taxed fairly to ensure the country derives maximum value from its natural resources.

Government policy reforms — including the creation of special economic zones and tax incentives — are aimed at formalising the sector and attracting more compliant investors.

With the integration of drone surveillance and public accountability tools, MMCZ hopes to close loopholes and reinforce the integrity of Zimbabwe’s mineral value chain.

Zimplats’ Expansion Lights Up Zimbabwe’s Mining Future

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Zimplats’ Expansion Lights Up Zimbabwe’s Mining Future

As the Selous Metallurgical Complex buzzed with national pride and anticipation, the spotlight turned not only to what ZIMPLATS had built, but to the bold, unwavering vision behind it — a vision carried with conviction, as described by Implats Chairperson Advocate Thandi Orleyn.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Standing before an audience that included His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, government ministers, parliamentarians, traditional leaders, and mining stakeholders during the official commissioning of two significant expansion projects at the mine, Orleyn delivered a powerful message: that Zimplats’ US$1.1 billion investment to date under its 10-year, US$1.8 billion expansion programme is not merely a corporate milestone — it is a promise fulfilled.

“Today, we do more than commission infrastructure — we commission belief,” Orleyn declared. “Belief in the PGM industry’s future, belief in the power of collaboration, and belief in what becomes possible when bold ambition meets sustained action.”

A Journey Forged in Resilience

Orleyn’s remarks traced Zimplats’ journey back to November 2020, when the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Zimbabwe to support the national beneficiation roadmap. That MOU, she said, laid the foundation for the most ambitious expansion drive in Zimbabwe’s platinum sector — one that includes not only mine replacements and upgrades but expanded smelting, the refurbishment of a Base Metal Refinery, a 185MW solar energy programme, and a sulphuric acid abatement plant.

“When we first announced this ambitious programme, many doubted it could be achieved,” she admitted. “Yet, through sheer determination, teamwork and tremendous stakeholder support, I am proud to say that many of our major projects are either completed or nearing completion.”

The Smelter That Defied the Odds

Now officially commissioned, Zimplats’ expanded smelter — delivered at a cost of US$360 million — triples smelting capacity to 380,000 tonnes of concentrate annually. Constructed over 36 months, the facility spans an area equivalent to 12 football fields. It consumed 17,000 cubic metres of concrete, 3,500 tonnes of steel, 18 kilometres of pipework, and 350 kilometres of cabling.

What stands out is how the project prioritised Zimbabwean suppliers and workers. “The majority of materials and labour were sourced locally — except where technology was unavailable,” Orleyn emphasised.

And the impact? Significant. Approximately 1,600 contractors were employed at peak, most from nearby communities. Hatch Technologies, the global smelting solutions giant, partnered with local firms, creating opportunities for skill transfer and sustainable empowerment.

President Mnangagwa himself acknowledged this during his speech, noting that the smelter “has the capacity to accommodate other platinum group metal producers in the country,” and commended Zimplats’ role in promoting industry-wide collaboration.

Lighting the Future: Zimplats’ First 35MW Solar Plant

Alongside the smelter, Zimplats also commissioned the first phase of its solar power programme — a 35MW plant built at a cost of US$37 million. Designed to supply 8% of the company’s total energy needs, the solar farm sits on 109 hectares and features 74,880 PV panels mounted on a single-axis tracking system.

Seven Zimbabwean firms and an Egyptian EPC company delivered the project, employing 800 workers at peak. Beyond just clean energy, Zimplats is exploring dual land use — integrating agriculture beneath the solar arrays to maximise land value.

President Mnangagwa hailed the project as a “momentous occasion” and encouraged others in the mining sector to follow Zimplats’ green example: “This investment of USD37 million in renewable energy is a clear indication that embracing green technologies is not just an environmental imperative but also a smart economic decision.”

What Comes Next: Solar Expansion, Sulphuric Abatement & Refining

Orleyn outlined what lies ahead. Zimplats is preparing to roll out three more phases to bring solar capacity to 185MW by 2031. Phase 2A, already underway, will deliver 45MW at a cost of US$54 million.

But the energy transition is not the only priority. Construction of a sulphur dioxide (SO₂) abatement plant is in progress, with US$68 million of the US$146 million budget already spent. The plant, which will help Zimplats meet global emission standards, will also produce sulphur for fertiliser manufacturing.

Meanwhile, refurbishment of the mothballed Base Metal Refinery continues. US$33 million has been spent so far, and long-lead equipment has already arrived. Process testing was conducted in Australia, suggesting that Zimplats is steadily gearing toward in-country refining — the final step in Zimbabwe’s mineral value chain dream.

Walking the Talk on Empowerment

Adv. Orleyn didn’t just speak about metal and megawatts. She spoke about people. She reminded the audience that Zimplats sees itself not just as an investor, but as a development partner, as a neighbour, as a bridge-builder.

“In 2023, we implemented the first phase of our economic empowerment programme through shareholding in community-owned companies,” she said. “Today, we again witness a further issuance of shareholding, including equity in Woodbase Investments — a company that provides services to solar-related infrastructure.”

President Mnangagwa praised this vision, saying: “Zimplats has also invested in five associate companies where Zimplats Mhondoro-Ngezi, Chegutu, Zvimba Community Share Ownership Trust has shareholding… aimed at creating a sustainable and empowered community.”

Orleyn went further: “We consider ourselves unofficial ambassadors for Zimbabwe. We hosted international delegates during the Canada-Africa Business Symposium, supported ZIDA’s investment drive in Toronto, and recently hosted Swedish delegates. We stand ready to partner on future opportunities that advance the country’s development.”

A Message of Hope, Despite Headwinds

Orleyn acknowledged Zimbabwe’s operational headwinds — inflation, currency volatility, and policy shifts — but insisted that Implats and Zimplats remain confident in the country’s future.

“Over the years that we have been operating in Zimbabwe, the Government remains open to constructive dialogue,” she said. “With your unwavering support, we will continue to grow in Zimbabwe, creating a better future for all our stakeholders, including the communities around our operations.”

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