Online Reporter
FILABUSI, MATABELELAND SOUTH — Antech Laboratories, Zimbabwe’s leading certified testing firm, is set to open a new facility in Filabusi, bringing critical analysis services directly to the heart of the region’s surging gold mining activity.
This expansion aims to end the costly and time-consuming process for local miners who have historically had to transport samples over 100 kilometres to the company’s Bulawayo branch for testing.
A strategic move to serve a booming sector
The decision to establish the Filabusi branch is a direct response to the increased mining activity across Matabeleland South, where more individuals and companies are turning to gold mining, lured by sustained high global prices.
Manager Mr Edson Luwobo stated that the expansion underscores Antech’s commitment to supporting all players in the mining sector, from artisanal miners to large-scale operations.
“We anticipated this rise in activity and are expanding our operations to ensure seamless and convenient services for all,” Mr Luwobo said.
“This new branch will provide certified and timely data, which is the bedrock of profitable and compliant mining operations.”
Head and shoulders above the rest
The new facility will operate under Antech’s established SADC-rated laboratory standards, a benchmark for quality and reliability that the company states places it “head and shoulders” above competitors.
For miners, this translates to precise assay results — determining the exact gold content in ore samples — which are critical for evaluating a mine’s viability, processing efficiency and royalty calculations. In a sector where every gram counts, accurate laboratory analysis is non-negotiable for maximising yield and ensuring fair revenue sharing with the government.
A trajectory of growth
The Filabusi opening marks the latest step in Antech’s aggressive growth strategy, following the successful launch of its Bulawayo branch last year. This network expansion from its Kwekwe head office positions the company to capitalise on Zimbabwe’s record-breaking gold production, which reached 42 metric tons in the 11 months to November 2025.
The company’s move also comes at a pivotal time for the industry. The Government recently revised its proposed gold royalty structure, ultimately deciding to maintain a 5 percent rate for prices up to $5 000 per ounce—a decision welcomed by miners concerned about profitability.
With financial analysts forecasting gold could average above $5 055 per ounce by year-end 2026, the demand for dependable, local laboratory services is expected to remain strong.
Antech plans to engage directly with clients during the 2026 October Mine Entra mining indaba in Bulawayo where they had a presence last year as well, further solidifying its role as a leader in mining and exploration laboratory services.
