The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development launched an extensive outreach programme from March 13 to 17, 2025, aimed at engaging with small—and large-scale mining operations across Zimbabwe.
By Ryan Chigoche
The initiative is set to cover various key mining regions, offering a unique opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate, discuss challenges, and drive the adoption of sustainable mining practices.
In a statement, Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) Chief Executive Officer Mr. Wellington Takavarasha explained that the outreach seeks to promote cooperation between miners and policymakers. The initiative is also designed to gather insights and promote informed decision-making in policy formulation for the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector.
“By engaging directly with miners, the Committee seeks to gain valuable insights and facilitate informed decision-making on policy formulation that is suitable for ASM operations,” the statement reads.
ZMF has urged miners within the regions outlined in the program to actively participate in the familiarisation sessions, which will provide a platform for direct interaction with policymakers.
The outreach tour will commence in Bindura and move on to Mazowe and Inyathi on March 14, followed by Mutoko and Gwanda on the 15th, Masvingo and Kwekwe on the 16th, and conclude with visits to Kadoma and Mutare on the 17th.
Zimbabwe’s mining sector is rich with diverse mineral resources, including gold, platinum, diamonds, lithium, chrome, and a variety of semi-precious stones.
Small-scale mining operations are predominantly focused on extracting gold, chrome, and semi-precious stones, especially along the Great Dyke belt, which remains a central hub for mining activity.
Gold production, in particular, sees significant involvement from small-scale miners, who contribute about 60 percent of the country’s overall gold output.
This underscores the crucial role small-scale miners play in the industry despite facing challenges related to access to capital, equipment, and training.
The mining industry remains one of the most important pillars of Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing substantially to employment, foreign exchange earnings, and the nation’s overall industrial output.
However, the sector faces a host of challenges, including fluctuating commodity prices, regulatory uncertainties, and environmental concerns, making initiatives such as this outreach program essential for its continued growth and sustainability.
