ZCDC Targets 10 Million Carats Through Exploration Expansion
Zimbabwe’s largest diamond producer, the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC), is on a steady path toward increasing its production to 10 million carats annually, primarily through aggressive exploration and the opening of new mining areas, said the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Winston Chitando.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, Minister Chitando emphasized that ZCDC remains the frontrunner in diamond production in the country.
The company aims to double its current output of 5 million carats per year to 10 million carats.
“This year, ZCDC is targeting close to 6 million carats, which is a remarkable achievement compared to a few years ago when the company was producing just 1.8 million carats annually,” Chitando said.
The minister noted that ZCDC’s expansion strategy is centred on opening new mining areas and capitalizing on the company to ensure it meets the ambitious goal of producing over 10 million carats per year. The government and the company are actively exploring ways to further unlock the sector’s potential through investments in advanced exploration and production technologies.
“In Zimbabwe’s diamond sector, ZCDC is leading the way. As reported, the goal is to double output to over 10 million carats. ZCDC is expanding steadily, and the current focus is on capitalizing the company and opening new mining areas, all with the aim of reaching over 10 million carats per annum,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s diamond sector has other notable players contributing to the country’s overall production. Murowa Diamonds, a key private producer, has consistently delivered steady output, reportedly producing around 600,000 carats annually. Meanwhile, Anjin Zimbabwe has resumed operations and is projected to make significant contributions to the national output as it ramps up production.
In addition to these active producers, exploration activities by Alrosa Zimbabwe are showing promise. Alrosa, one of the world’s largest diamond producers, has been conducting extensive exploration in Zimbabwe, focusing on identifying new diamond-rich deposits. The joint venture between Alrosa and the Zimbabwean government reflects the country’s commitment to expanding its diamond industry by tapping into unexplored areas.
Zimbabwe’s combined diamond production from its major players—ZCDC, Murowa, and Anjin—positions the country as a growing force in the global diamond market. With ZCDC’s expansion efforts and Alrosa’s exploration activities gaining traction, Zimbabwe is poised to significantly increase its diamond output in the coming years, further enhancing its contribution to the mining sector.
The goal of producing over 10 million carats annually will not only cement Zimbabwe’s standing as a key player in the diamond industry but also generate substantial economic benefits through export revenues, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development.