Zimbabwe`s Mines and Mining Development ministry says the Xintai Palm River Energy Metallurgical Industrial Project in Beitbridge is poised to make a substantial impact on Zimbabwe’s energy, mining, and industrial sectors, with the first stage focusing on the production of 1,200 megawatts of power, a combination of thermal and solar energy. This major development is set to play a key role in advancing Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into an Upper Middle-Income Economy.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Xintai Palm River Energy and Metallurgical Industrial Park in Beitbridge, Matabeleland South, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando provided a detailed overview of the project, which also includes the production of 1 million tons of coal.
“We are committed to harnessing the power of coal, with the production of 1 million tons of coal, part of which will be sourced from Chile and Rwanda. This will be instrumental in boosting our energy sector,” said Minister Chitando.
He said further stages of the project include the creation of 2 million tons of high-carbon fuel pump, which will support over 5 million tons of the home-horse economy. Additionally, a carbon-extended steel production facility with a capacity of 1 million tons will be established.
Upon full implementation, the project is expected to generate $2 billion in value. Minister Chitando also outlined the key milestones that will contribute to Vision 2030, including the expected production of 500,000 tons of thermal coal, 500,000 tons of open coal, 250 megawatts of power, and 1 million tons of carbon steel by 2030.
He said by that time, the project is projected to generate $1.7 million in revenue, further accelerating Zimbabwe’s
“This project is a game-changer, not only for our economy but for the entire Southern African region,” concluded Chitando.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana said “This massive project will cover 5,163 hectares within a special economic zone and is expected to be completed in five phases over 12 years, with a total investment of US$3.6 billion.”
