ZMF Showcases Zimbabwe’s Gold Potential at China Gold Expo
The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) delegation, led by President Henrietta Rushwaya, made a significant impact at the China Gold Congress and Expo, successfully promoting Zimbabwe’s gold sector as a prime investment destination.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Rushwaya was accompanied by key members of the ZMF executive, including Mashonaland West Province Chairman Timothy Chizuzu, Treasurer Johane Sithole, and Youth Secretary Eventhough Matimbe, who collectively represented the country’s vibrant small-scale mining sector.
Also present at the expo were Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) General Manager Peter Magaramombe and Head of Gold at Fidelity Gold Refinery Tavonga Siziba.
Rushwaya and the ZMF delegation emphasized that Zimbabwe is open for business, highlighting the nation’s vast gold reserves, favourable regulatory reforms, and attractive investment incentives. They positioned Zimbabwe as a country ripe with opportunities for local and international investors, underlining the Second Republic’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment.
During her speech titled “Unlocking Zimbabwe’s Gold Potential: Opportunities for Investment and Sustainable Development,” Rushwaya presented a compelling case for investing in Zimbabwe’s gold sector.
“Zimbabwe is endowed with rich and largely untapped gold reserves,” Rushwaya stated. “Our country is underexplored, with artisanal and small-scale miners, who often mine blindly, accounting for over 60% of gold deliveries to the country’s sole operating gold buyer and exporter, Fidelity Gold Refinery. This significant contribution underscores the untapped potential that awaits systematic exploration and investment.”
Rushwaya further assured potential investors of the Zimbabwean government’s commitment to creating a transparent and efficient mining sector.
“To create a more investor-friendly environment, Zimbabwe is undertaking significant regulatory reforms, including amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act, which will provide clear guidelines for foreign investors and protect their interests,” she said.
She also highlighted the wide range of incentives Zimbabwe offers to attract and retain investors, such as tax breaks, reduced royalties, and streamlined permitting processes. Rushwaya also emphasized the robust infrastructure development underway in Zimbabwe, which includes the construction of world-class roads, new railway lines, and upgrading airports.
“Our government is investing heavily in infrastructure to support mining activities, ensuring that investors have access to the expertise needed for successful ventures,” Rushwaya noted.
“Moreover, we are committed to sustainable mining practices that protect the environment and promote community development.”
Fidelity Gold Refinery, represented at the expo, also underscored its role in supporting the ASM sector, which accounted for approximately 67% of the total gold deliveries in July 2024. The presence of FGR alongside ZMF highlights the collaborative effort to elevate Zimbabwe’s position in the global gold market.