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Charity Ruzvidzo Business Reporter
FIVE gold mining service centres have been set up in the Midlands province as part of the government’s initiative to formalise operations of small-scale miners and increase gold deliveries.Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) spokesperson Dosman Mangisi told Business Chronicle on Friday the centres have been set up in gold-rich mining zones for easy access by producers.
“So far five gold mining centres have been set up in Zhombe, Silobela, Shurugwi, Zvishavane and Mberengwa. However, the centres aren’t yet operational due to lack of equipment. We expect operations to resume as soon as equipment is availed, around May,” he said.
“Silobela is a good example which has started slowly without equipment but managed to produce 4.2kgs in 19 working days. If the centre was properly equipped a potential 10kgs could be produced,” he said.
Mangisi said the $100 million facility availed by the government for recapitalising small-scale miners was yet to be distributed to intended beneficiaries.
“We’re also planning on setting up gold centres in Matabeleland South. The $100 million equipment facility will be distributed to all the 52 gold mining districts in the country, as soon we’ve the money,” he said.
ZMF says at least a quarter of the estimated 30,000 small-scale miners need equipment support to enhance improved production.
“If 7,500 small-scale miners are mechanised with necessary equipment they’ve the potential to produce seven kilogrammes per year each, mining at least eight tonnes per day at two grams per tonne in 20 working days,” added Mangisi.
The establishment of gold mining services centres was announced last year by the Minister of Mines and Mining Development Walter Chidhakwa.
The minister said the centres would be run by skilled engineers who will offer training to artisanal miners.
Online Reporter