Technology and innovation are reshaping how Zimbabwe’s mining story is told, and journalists are leading the charge. Speaking at the 12th Edition of the Mining Media Awards at Crowne Plaza Monomotapa, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, emphasized that digital platforms, data journalism, and multimedia storytelling now offer fresh ways to communicate the transformation of the nation’s mining sector to broader audiences, both locally and globally.
Themed “Stories of Growth and Sustainability,” this year’s awards celebrated the role of media in capturing not only production figures and profits but also the human, social, and environmental dimensions of mining. Dr. Muswere described journalists as “custodians of truth and chroniclers of progress,” noting that responsible and insightful reporting builds investor confidence, promotes transparency, and strengthens governance in a sector that is central to Zimbabwe’s economic growth and Vision 2030.
“The mining story you tell must reflect innovation, community empowerment, environmental care, and shared prosperity,” the Minister said. He highlighted the role of journalists in bridging communities, investors, and policymakers, portraying mining not merely as a source of revenue but as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.
The awards recognized excellence across multiple sectors, underscoring the importance of dedication, ethical responsibility, and technical knowledge in mining journalism. In the Gold Sector, Nqobile Bhebhe of Zimpapers emerged as the winner, with Brenna Matendere of News Gemnation as runner-up. Tawanda Musarurwa of Zimpapers won the Small-Scale and Artisanal Miners category, followed by Muchaneta Chimuka, also of Zimpapers.
In the Platinum Sector, James Muonwa of New Zimbabwe took top honors, with Nelson Gahadza of Herald Online as runner-up. Fungai Lupande of Zimpapers was recognized for Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability, while Evans Mathanda of Alpha Media Holdings was runner-up. Rudairo Mapuranga of Mining Zimbabwe won the Diamond Sector award, with Blessing Kanyemba of Equity Axis as runner-up.
Oliver Kazunga of Zimpapers claimed the Coal and Gas sector award, with Blessing Kanyemba again as runner-up. In the Chrome sector, Nathan Guma of NewsHawks won, with Ryan Chigoche of Mining Zimbabwe as runner-up. The Lithium Sector award went to Blessing Kanyemba of Equity Axis, with Elvis Masvaure of NRTv as runner-up. Highlighting her exceptional coverage across multiple areas, Blessing Kanyemba of Equity Axis was named Overall Mining Sector Reporter of the Year.
Dr. Muswere also commended the organizers, Mejrkh Communications, and corporate partners for nurturing this platform for 12 years, noting that collaboration between media, business, and government strengthens professional standards and supports sustainable development. He called on journalists to continue embracing innovative tools and storytelling techniques that reflect the full scope of Zimbabwe’s mining sector—its people, technologies, communities, and environmental initiatives.
As Zimbabwe’s mining sector continues to expand, the Mining Media Awards reaffirm the central role of journalists in promoting ethical reporting, transparency, and inclusive growth. By combining technology, innovation, and human-centered storytelling, Zimbabwe’s media is helping to shape a narrative of prosperity, resilience, and opportunity for the nation.
