In an effort to fundamentally reshape and future-proof the nation’s mining sector, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has declared Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth a “national trust” to be managed for the benefit of all citizens, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Officially opening the 28th Mine Entra exhibition, the Vice President delivered a powerful address that positioned the industry as the core of the nation’s economic ambitions while issuing a firm stance against corruption and the mere exportation of raw materials.
Speaking under the visionary theme, “Beyond Extraction: Sustaining the Future of Mining,” he framed the conference as a critical strategic convening of minds, far beyond a simple annual gathering. The Vice President underscored that from the coalfields of Hwange to the gold belt of Penhalonga, the nation is “up and running,” with mining contributing over 14.5% of the national Gross Domestic Product and supporting countless livelihoods. This foundational role makes the sector absolutely pivotal as Zimbabwe pursues its economic transition from the National Development Strategy 1 to the National Development Strategy 2.
The central philosophy of “Beyond Extraction” was presented as a direct challenge to the industry to move past the traditional model of resource exportation. The Vice President articulated a future defined by beneficiation, innovation, and community empowerment, where the export of finished products replaces the export of raw coal and other minerals. He emphasized that this shift is a non-negotiable principle of the national mining strategy, demanding that every gram of mineral extracted translates directly into jobs created and industries built within Zimbabwe.
The Vice President issued a direct and sobering charge to all miners, reminding them that they are merely the custodians of the nation’s mineral wealth, which must be handled with the utmost integrity. He stated unequivocally that these resources are not for personal gain but belong to the people of Zimbabwe and future generations, to be exploited responsibly and protected as a national trust. He also addressed critical suppliers and service providers, describing them as the essential arteries of the mining ecosystem, and called on processors and investors to embrace the new era of value addition. He made it clear that Zimbabwe is open for business based on mutual partnerships but firmly declared it is not open for unchecked extraction.
This new direction is being backed by a modernized legal framework. The Vice President highlighted the recently gazetted Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, which is aligned with global best practices and designed to enforce accountability, transparency, and corporate social responsibility. He stated that this legislation will ensure mining generates tangible benefits for communities through the development of schools, clinics, roads, and sustainable livelihoods.
In one of the speech’s most forceful segments, the Vice President committed to eradicating the “cancers” of corruption, illicit trading, and leakages that erode public trust and deprive citizens of their rightful benefits. He announced that the government will implement strict regulations and oversight mechanisms, including regular audits, community engagement, public reporting, and whistleblower protection, to ensure transparency in licensing, monitoring, and compliance.
Beyond policy, the Vice President called for a spirit of self-reliance, urging mining companies to take the initiative in projects like rehabilitating the Victoria Falls road and rail link. He assured them of government support to recover costs, emphasizing the need to “think outside the box” for national development. While commending strategic projects like the Palm River Energy Metallurgical Plant, he outlined an even more ambitious vision for a fully integrated mining value chain, powered by geospatial mapping, artificial intelligence, and automation, and integrated with climate resilience and renewable energy.
Concluding his address, Vice President Chiwenga declared MineEntra 2025 a grand agenda and a launchpad for the partnerships and investments that will shape Zimbabwe’s future. He reiterated the Second Republic’s commitment to building a nation where mining serves as a foundation for national renewal and shared prosperity before officially declaring the 2025 expo open.
