Finance & Economic Development Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube says Government stands ready to support Mimosa Mine’s plans to extend the life of mine and sustain its operations, describing the operation as a key national asset and a vital contributor to livelihoods.
Speaking during a tour of the platinum group metals (PGM) mine in Zvishavane, which he undertook alongside Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando, Professor Ncube said he was aware of the challenges facing the operation — including the fact that the current resource is likely to last only another eight years.
“We’re aware that they’re also trying to develop a resource nearby,” he said. “They want government support to be sure they’re able to develop that resource.”
According to Professor Ncube, development of the nearby resource could extend the life of mine by an additional 12 to 15 years — a move he said would safeguard thousands of jobs.
“You can imagine, 3,000 families would depend on this facility,” he said. “It’s a very important business, mine and asset, and I had to come and see it for myself.”
He also commended the mine for its growing inclusion of women in mining roles and its ongoing support to SMEs linked to its business.
“I was impressed that they’re increasing also their women miners… and they’re supporting SMEs who are linked to their business,” said Professor Ncube.
The finance minister also praised the mine’s housing programme, which ensures all workers own homes.
“They tell me that everyone who works in this mine owns their house. That’s really empowerment — if they put a roof over their head,” he said.
Professor Ncube said Government wants to understand the challenges and provide the necessary support to ensure Mimosa continues to play its vital role in the economy and in the lives of Zimbabweans.
“So as Government, we want to make sure that we’re able to understand the issue, be able to support them to develop the additional resource,” he said.
