Mimosa Mining Company continues to cement its status as one of Zimbabwe’s leading platinum producers through a model that merges environmental stewardship, sustainable mining, and socio-economic development, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
During a recent site visit by the Minister of Finance and Investment Promotion, Prof. Mthuli Ncube, the mine’s General Manager, Mr. Stephen Ndiyamba, outlined key initiatives and infrastructure that reflect Mimosa’s long-term vision.
From Waste to Wealth: The West Dam Model
Mr. Ndiyamba revealed that 97% of the material processed at Mimosa ends up as tailings—waste material—which is deposited at the West Tailings Storage Facility (TSF). While tailings traditionally pose environmental challenges, Mimosa has turned this into an opportunity.
“We decided to make a bigger dam so we can introduce a bit of ecotourism,” said Ndiyamba, referring to the development around the TSF. Now a thriving ecosystem, the area features zebras, kudus, and aquatic life, including catfish and tilapia. The facility also provides recreation for both workers and the surrounding community.
Importantly, the dam is central to the mine’s water recycling system. Approximately 60% of the water used at the plant is recovered and reused from the dam, with only 40% being drawn from fresh sources. The company is working to raise this recycled ratio to 80% by investing in larger pumps.
“This model not only reduces our environmental footprint but ensures that when the mine eventually closes, the dam remains a sustainable community asset,” said Ndiyamba.
Fish Farming and Eco-Recreation Vision
Mimosa has already introduced fish fingerlings into the dam and envisions a time when visitors will be able to catch their own lunch.
“Next time when you come, you fish for your own lunch. You don’t catch, you don’t eat,” joked Ndiyamba, highlighting the company’s innovative and community-focused reuse of mine infrastructure.
Energy Independence and Renewable Power Integration
On energy, Ndiyamba confirmed that Mimosa is currently working on developing a solar power plant that will enable the mine to run on clean energy. The solar project, expected within 18 months, will not require battery storage. Instead, Mimosa will use a “power banking” model with ZESA, supplying surplus power to the national grid during the day and drawing it back at night.
Prof. Ncube expressed full government support for such initiatives, citing national energy policy provisions that favour captive power projects.
“We offer incentives for these projects through national project status and can give them liquid asset status, allowing pension funds to invest,” said the Minister. “This becomes a true public-private partnership.”
The Finance Minister reaffirmed that such renewable efforts are not just welcome, but a core part of Zimbabwe’s energy strategy, noting similar support for companies like PPC Cement and Zimplats.
Government Backs Mimosa’s Expansion Plans
Prof. Ncube toured land earmarked for Mimosa’s potential expansion and indicated the government’s willingness to provide necessary support. “They’ve got a solid design for the tailings facility, executed by a local contractor—a world-class job,” he said. “This has enabled the collection of water in a well-built dam, now transformed into a space for biodiversity and recreation.”
He also highlighted the mine’s socio-economic footprint. “Mimosa employs around 3,000 people. Most own homes, and the mine supports schools, transportation, and infrastructure accessed by local communities. It’s not just about shareholder returns—it’s a business embedded in national development.”
Empowering Local Enterprise and Supply Chain Inclusion
Mimosa’s commitment to sustainable business extends beyond the mine gates. Prof. Ncube commended the company for outsourcing non-core services to local entrepreneurs. “They’ve farmed out trucking and other support services to Local Economic Development (LED) partners, creating independent businesses and boosting entrepreneurship,” he said.
The model not only boosts local economic activity but supports skills development and value chain localisation—essential pillars of Zimbabwe’s Mining Vision 2030.
