Zvishavane is set to host one of the most anticipated mining events of the year—Minex Southern Region 2025—on April 3 at Gresham Ground. The event promises a full day of innovation, networking, and industry growth, with a strong focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and taxation.
The platform, organized by Minex, brings together small-scale miners, mining suppliers, producers, and manufacturers for collaboration and knowledge exchange. This year’s edition aims to empower miners with insights on regulatory compliance, responsible mining practices, and leveraging technology for efficiency.
Zimbabwe’s small-scale mining sector, particularly artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), is a vital pillar of the country’s economy. Around 500,000 people are directly employed in ASGM, while up to 2 million depend on it for their livelihoods. Small-scale miners have consistently outpaced large-scale mining operations in gold production, contributing over 60% of the country’s total gold output in some years. By 2022, Zimbabwe’s total gold production reached 37.3 tonnes, with projections for 2023 aiming for 42 tonnes—indicating the growing influence of small-scale operations.
Speaking ahead of the event, Payne Farai Kupfuwa, CEO of the Young Miners Foundation (YMF), emphasized the importance of young miners participating in Minex 2025. He highlighted key issues such as mine safety, taxation awareness, and environmental sensitivity as crucial for the sustainable growth of small-scale mining.
“We have seen tragic incidents where young miners lose their lives due to unsafe mining practices, especially in diffused mines during the rainy season. Minex 2025 presents an opportunity for miners to learn best practices, mitigate risks, and embrace innovation in their operations,” said Kupfuwa.
Beyond safety, the event will tackle taxation, an area of growing concern for small-scale miners. Kupfuwa stressed the need for miners to understand the taxation process as part of the drive towards formalization and professionalization. “We contribute to the economy, but many young miners lack clarity on tax obligations. This event will help bridge that knowledge gap,” he added.
The economic impact of small-scale mining extends beyond gold production. The mining sector accounts for approximately 12% of Zimbabwe’s GDP and 80% of national exports, with small-scale gold mining alone contributing up to 12% of total exports. However, illicit gold trade remains a major challenge, leading to estimated losses of $1.2 billion annually due to smuggling. Addressing formalization and compliance will be key discussion points at Minex 2025.
With the fourth industrial revolution shaping industries globally, Minex 2025 will also explore how small-scale miners can integrate technology to enhance productivity and efficiency. Experts will share insights on administrative models, IT solutions, and strategies for scaling up mining operations.
As the countdown to April 3 begins, Minex Southern Region 2025 promises to be a defining moment for small-scale miners. Attendees can look forward to engaging with industry leaders, discovering cutting-edge solutions, and shaping the future of mining in Zimbabwe.
