Zimbabwe is stepping up its drive to attract sustainable mining investment and accelerate value addition as government officials and industry leaders engage global partners at the African Mining Conference currently underway in Cape Town, South Africa.
The country’s delegation is using the conference to position Zimbabwe as a competitive, future-focused mining destination centred on beneficiation, industrialisation and long-term socio-economic transformation. International interest in Zimbabwe’s mining sector remains strong, with global players commencing its rich mineral assets, improving productivity and deepening commitment to sustainability.
High-level meetings between Zimbabwean authorities and international companies have focused on technology transfer, environmental stewardship and specialised skills development. These discussions aim to strengthen partnerships that generate shared value and support Zimbabwe’s long-term industrial goals.
Valterra Board Chairperson Mr Norman Mbazima said Zimbabwe remains a cornerstone of the company’s global operations.
“Our mine in Zimbabwe, Unki, is one of the best in our portfolio in terms of mechanisation, productivity and producing the best metal. It is key to us and key to Zimbabwe, and this engagement is about ensuring an enabling environment for future success,” he said.
Sweden’s Deputy Minister of Trade and Promotion, Honourable Diana Janse, also highlighted opportunities in environmentally responsible mining technologies.
“Swedish companies have a lot to offer the mining industry, particularly in sustainable equipment from an environmental and social perspective,” she said.
The United Kingdom expressed interest in collaborating with Zimbabwe on geological surveying and environmental management.
“We had fruitful discussions with the Minister of Mines on exchanging expertise in geological surveying and managing the mining environment to ensure maximum national benefit,” said UK Trade Commissioner for Africa, Mr John Humphrey.
Government officials emphasise that these engagements form part of Zimbabwe’s strategy to transition away from exporting raw minerals toward value addition and industrial growth.
Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Polite Kambamura, said Africa must redefine its role in the global mining value chain.
“When we speak of beneficiation, we are not just speaking about industrial processes. We are talking about justice, jobs and the future of our continent. Africa is no longer content with being a spectator on the global map. We must move from exporting raw potential to exporting value. The era of dig and ship must be buried,” he said.
Authorities reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to maintaining a predictable, investor-friendly environment that promotes sustainable mining and broad-based economic development.
The African Mining Conference continues to provide Zimbabwe with a strategic platform to showcase its mineral potential, policy reforms and its vision for a modern, value-driven mining industry.
