Online Reporter
THE much-touted opening of a world-class laboratory scheduled for last week in Bulawayo was held in a flawless opening ceremony in which guest after guest lauded the company for opening in Bulawayo.
Antech, a celebrated national name in mining laboratory solutions has a reputation for offering the best services, standing head and shoulders above and ahead of its competitors as the go-to and most efficient and best-accredited laboratory in the land.
Previously domiciled mainly in the Midlands, many Matabeleland-based mines and mining companies have been forced to send their samples to Kwekwe to access Antech’s renowned services, which has meant delays in the time it took to transport the samples and get results as well as additional costs associated with transporting samples.
The arrival of Antech on Bulawayo territory was therefore a welcome relief for many people in the mining industry.
Laboratory manager Edson Luwobo emphasised the importance of convenience for the clients as being a hallmark of Antech Laboratory.
“We are elated to have our lab establish a lab here in Bulawayo to service Bulawayo Province and other close hubs like Matabeleland North and South provinces,” said Luwobo ecstatically.
“We had seen the gap our absence had created and that we were the only game in town that could fill that gap completely with our high accreditation as a great lab solutions brand. Our mandate is to provide value for money for our clients and also offer reliable and top-class solutions and services that help inspire mining with precise data as well as contribute to the growth of the mining sector and economy as we aim towards playing our part in growing the Zimbabwean economy into an upper-middle-class economy by the year 2030 with mining as the major driver of that growth and dream,” he added.
Speaking at the same occasion, guest of honour and director in the Vice Chancellor’s Office at the Zimbabwe Open University, Mr Benson Gabi lauded Antech for heeding the call of the mining community in Matabeleland.
“In the Antech Laboratory, we celebrate a significant milestone in the mining sector —the official opening of Antech Laboratories’ mining lab here in Bulawayo. This occasion is not just about launching a new facility; it is about progress, accessibility, and the growth of mining in Matabeleland and beyond,” he said.
“For years, miners in this region have faced the challenge of travelling to Kwekwe for sample testing. This not only added costs but also delayed critical decision-making in mining operations.
“Today, with the establishment of this state-of-the-art laboratory, we mark the beginning of a new era — one where miners have direct access to world-class mineral testing services right here in Bulawayo,” he added.
He spelt out the significance of answering the national mining question.
“This development aligns perfectly with the Government’s vision for a thriving and efficient mining sector. As Zimbabwe continues to position itself as a leading player in the global mining industry, the role of precise and timely mineral analysis cannot be overstated. Antech Laboratories is playing a crucial part in ensuring that miners, both large- and small-scale, receive accurate data to guide their operations, promote responsible mining, and enhance productivity.”
In conclusion, he lauded the Government’s support being rendered to the mining industry.
“The Government remains committed to supporting investments that strengthen our mining sector. This lab is a testament to the private sector’s role in driving industry growth, and I commend Antech Laboratories for their dedication to this cause. Partnerships between Government and private stakeholders are key to unlocking the full potential of our mineral resources, ensuring that Zimbabwe benefits from its rich natural endowments,” he said.
