The Government is stepping up reforms in the mining sector as part of broader efforts to shield the economy from global shocks, promote value addition and attract responsible investment, Mines and Mining Development Minister Dr Polite Kambamura has said.
Addressing delegates at the just ended Chamber of Mines Annual Mining Conference in Victoria Falls, Dr Kambamura said Zimbabwe’s mining strategy was anchored on transforming the country from a mere exporter of raw minerals into an active participant in global mineral value chains.
“The country’s long-term vision is to derive greater economic benefits from its mineral wealth through industrialisation, innovation and job creation,” he said.
He said Government remained committed to creating a conducive investment climate for both local and foreign investors, while ensuring that policy frameworks are continuously reviewed in line with prevailing economic conditions. Zimbabwe, he added, was prioritising “productive investors” capable of contributing meaningfully to sustainable economic growth.
Dr Kambamura said gold remained the country’s leading mineral export and reiterated Government’s resolve to curb leakages in the sector, which continue to deprive the economy of significant foreign currency earnings.
He stressed that effective and responsible governance of mineral resources was key to maximising national benefit.
He further said Zimbabwe was targeting to become a net exporter of energy by 2030, while positioning itself not only as a mineral producer but also as a hub for mineral innovation and beneficiation.
The Minister also warned that Government would repossess coal concessions that were not being developed productively, adding that mining investments must demonstrate tangible benefits beyond extraction, including improved livelihoods for host communities.
