Miners in Zimbabwe’s southern region have welcomed the upcoming Mining Exhibition and Expo (MINEX) 2026, describing it as a critical platform for strengthening industry linkages and unlocking growth opportunities in the small-scale mining sector.
The 10th anniversary edition of the expo is set for April 9, 2026, at Gresham Grounds in Zvishavane and is expected to draw more than 300 active small-scale miners from key gold-producing districts, alongside financiers, suppliers, regulators and policymakers.
Speaking ahead of the event, Albert, a supervisor at Mega Mines, said the expo presents a strategic opportunity for miners to directly engage with key players in the sector, including Fidelity Gold Refinery, the country’s sole gold buyer.
“MINEX is a great opportunity for miners in this region to meet key stakeholders, suppliers, and the sole gold buyer, Fidelity,” he said. “These engagements are important for improving operations and unlocking growth.”
The event is being organised in partnership with the Zimbabwe Miners Federation and the Young Miners Foundation, and will be attended by Polite Kambamura, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, as guest of honour.
Organisers say this year’s expo will centre on formalisation, capitalisation and education—three pillars seen as essential to strengthening Zimbabwe’s small-scale mining industry.
Participants will also have opportunities to showcase products, build business partnerships and engage directly with regulators and industry stakeholders, in a move aimed at improving operational efficiency and expanding market access.
The gathering comes as authorities continue to push for the formalisation of the artisanal and small-scale mining sector, alongside efforts to enhance value addition and integrate miners into the broader economy.
Stakeholders say small-scale miners are increasingly recognised as key contributors to Zimbabwe’s gold output and overall economic development, making platforms such as MINEX central to the sector’s future growth trajectory.
