The upcoming Minex Southern Region Expo, slated for April 3rd, 2025, is expected to be a crucial gathering for small-scale miners, a sector that plays a significant role in Zimbabwe’s mining industry. The event will bring together miners from across the southern region, including Gwanda, Mberengwa, Zvishavane, Shurugwi, Gweru, Mvuma, and Lalapanzi, offering a platform for dialogue, networking, and access to critical resources.
According to Moses Charedzera, the Public Relations and Communications Executive for Minex, the expo will serve as a bridge between miners and key stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, mining equipment suppliers, chemical providers, and financiers.
“This is a golden opportunity for small-scale miners to engage with suppliers and explore possibilities of acquiring new equipment that can enhance production. Additionally, they will have direct access to financial institutions offering tailored solutions for growth in the sector,” said Charedzera.
Small-scale miners are the backbone of Zimbabwe’s mining sector, particularly in gold and chrome. In 2024, they contributed approximately 65% of the country’s gold production, delivering 23.7 tonnes out of the 36.48 tonnes recorded. Their output was a key driver of the $1.6 billion gold export earnings, although smuggling challenges persist, with annual losses estimated at $1.2 billion.
In the chrome sector, small-scale operators account for an estimated 30-40% of production, supplying major companies such as Zimasco and African Chrome Fields (ACF). With mining contributing 12% of GDP, 80% of exports, and sustaining over 1 million jobs, strengthening small-scale mining is seen as essential for national economic growth.
Miners attending the Minex Southern Region Expo will gain insights into compliance requirements, financing opportunities, and access to cutting-edge equipment aimed at improving productivity. The event is expected to foster collaborations that could drive increased production and formalization of small-scale mining activities.
“We are calling on all miners to take advantage of this event, as it provides a rare chance to engage directly with industry players who can help unlock new opportunities,” Charedzera added.
The expo, which will feature an exhibition, a conference, and dialogue sessions, is open to all small-scale miners in the region.
