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Zimbabwe’s platinum mining sector is undergoing a quiet revolution—underground. Leading the charge is Zimplats, a subsidiary of Impala Platinum (Implats), which is pioneering world-class underground mechanisation and automation at its Mupani Mine, drawing admiration from global and local mining professionals alike.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
In a recent LinkedIn post, Implats commended its Zimbabwean operation for setting a new benchmark in underground mining excellence, noting that Zimplats is “leading a revolution in underground mining.” The post, which features images of state-of-the-art equipment and structured underground workings, highlights the growing role of automated systems, digital monitoring, and machine efficiency in driving safer, more productive mining practices.
“Zimplats is leading a revolution in underground mechanisation and automation. Our teams are redefining how mining is done in Africa,” the company stated.
This recognition follows a recent technical visit by mine managers and engineers from across Zimbabwe to the Mupani Mine, where they witnessed firsthand the high-level automation and smart mine systems implemented at the operation.
Mine Managers Praise Mupani’s Technological Leap
According to a feature published by Mining Zimbabwe, mine managers were “thrilled” by what they saw at Mupani, especially the level of integration between people and smart systems. The mine has adopted advanced remote-controlled loaders, digitally connected control rooms, automated ventilation systems, and precise production tracking tools—all managed underground with efficiency and safety in mind.
“This is not just about technology for the sake of it—it’s about building a safer, more sustainable mine,” said one visiting manager.
Zimplats has been steadily investing in the future of its operations, and the Mupani Mine is expected to replace the depleting Rukodzi and Ngwarati mines, with production targets aligned to long-term sustainability goals.
Why Automation Matters
The global platinum market is becoming more competitive and environmentally conscious, pushing producers to lower costs while improving output and worker safety. Automation in underground mining allows for:
Reduced human exposure to hazardous zones
Increased production efficiency
Real-time data for decision-making
Lower energy consumption and emissions
Improved ore recovery and reduced dilution
By integrating these innovations, Zimplats is not only enhancing performance—it is securing its role as a technological leader within Zimbabwe’s US$12 billion mining strategy.
Impala Applauds Zimbabwean Talent and Innovation
For Implats, the success of Zimplats is a testament to the skills and resilience of Zimbabwean professionals, many of whom are at the forefront of executing and maintaining the automation systems.
“Our Zimbabwean teams continue to shine in implementing global standards in underground mining,” Implats noted.
This also supports Zimbabwe’s ambition to promote local talent development, skills transfer, and mining-led industrialisation, especially as Zimplats expands not just mining, but also smelting and base metal refining capacity in the country.
A Model for Smart Mining in Africa
Zimplats’ transformation of underground mining is more than a technological upgrade—it’s a statement of confidence in Zimbabwe’s mining future. From mechanised drilling to autonomous equipment and digital production systems, Mupani Mine is quickly becoming a blueprint for smart mining in Southern Africa.
As Zimbabwe pushes for modernisation and value addition across its mineral base, Zimplats’ leadership in underground automation signals the country’s readiness to take its place among the world’s most sophisticated mining jurisdictions.
