Staff Reporter
Government's focus on the mining sector has garnered commendation from leading economists, particularly highlighted by President Mnangagwa's upcoming commissioning of the Kamativi Lithium Mine in Hwange District.
In an interview with this publication, distinguished economist Elton Ziki praised the Government's initiatives, emphasising the significance of the Kamativi Lithium Mine.
This venture is part of a broader array of transformative projects under President Mnangagwa's administration.
"The commissioning of the Kamativi Lithium Mine marks a pivotal moment for the mining sector, aligning with other significant projects like the Arcadia Lithium Mine, Sabi Star Mine, Zulu Lithium Mine, Dinson Colliery Company, and the Zimbabwe Zhongxin Smelting Ferrochrome Plant in Masvingo," Ziki highlighted.
Ziki also reflected on the revitalization of the Kamativi Tin Mine, now operating as the Kamativi Mining Company, as a symbol of the area's mining industry resurgence.
"Boasting an estimated US$2 billion in lithium resources, this mine is set to rejuvenate the once-bustling mining town of Kamativi, creating job opportunities and driving local development initiatives," he noted.
Another economist, Calvin Chitsunge, lauded the Government's policies for fostering growth within the mining sector.
"By mandating extractors of gems and precious metals to remit a portion of their mining royalties to the government, these measures are poised to significantly bolster the success of the newly introduced ZiG currency and enhance the country's mineral reserves," Chitsunge explained.
Moreover, Chitsunge commended the Government's emphasis on mineral value addition and beneficiation for its role in job creation and increased foreign exchange earnings.
"The ongoing beneficiation projects reflect Zimbabwe's commitment to leveraging its substantial mineral wealth, with the policy reserving a 10 percent quota for local diamond cutting and polishing firms, promoting economic diversification and employment," he added.
In parallel efforts to secure national well-being, the Government is finalising the Emergency Irrigation Development Programme (EIDP).
This initiative, aimed at expanding irrigated land to 350,000 hectares within the next year, seeks to mitigate the impacts of recurring droughts and enhance food security.
