The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has praised mining companies for their substantial contributions to community empowerment and development, as showcased at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society Exhibition.
Deputy Minister Polite Kambamura expressed his satisfaction with the various initiatives undertaken by mining firms to enhance local communities.
“We are very happy with the initiatives that some of my members are undertaking,” Kambamura stated at the exhibition. “These efforts are not limited to cultural groups but extend broadly to empowering communities.”
Kambamura highlighted several key projects, noting that many companies are involved in building cattle herds, which play a crucial role in local agriculture and economic stability. “We have observed that many of my members are involved in building cattle herds, which is vital for local agriculture and economic stability,” he said.
The Deputy Minister also noted the trend of mining companies engaging in farming and nutritional gardening. “Some companies are venturing into farming, and there are also projects focused on creating nutritional gardens within communities,” he added.
Moreover, Kambamura emphasized the role of mining companies in promoting industrialization and economic growth at the community level. “We have noticed that many companies are assisting communities in empowering themselves through industrialization,” Kambamura explained. “This includes supporting local businesses and infrastructure development, which is essential for sustainable community progress.”
Zimplats and Mimosa have notably advanced agricultural initiatives in Zimbabwe. Zimplats, in collaboration with Remoggo, launched a dairy project aimed at closing the milk deficit with a target of 6,900 cattle and an annual production of 25 million litres of milk. Their investments also include infrastructure development, such as irrigation systems and employee accommodation, and a $500,000 upgrade to Gwebi Agricultural College. Zimplats has also supported local communities by providing dipping facilities and feed.
Meanwhile, Mimosa has contributed to livestock revitalization through breeding programs and artificial insemination, established community gardens, improved water and sanitation with boreholes, and enhanced local educational facilities.
