Bubi District miner uses technology to improve yields

Judith Phiri, Business Reporter

A MINER who operates in Matabeleland North’s Bubi District has said the Government’s target of gold is expected to contribute yields worth US$4 billion and is achievable through the use of various innovative technologies.

This comes after the miner, Engineer Gilbert Kaguru who owns Waterwitch Mine, recorded a growth of close to 1 000 percent last year.

In 2019, President Mnangagwa launched the US$12 billion mining industry roadmap where gold is expected to contribute US$4 billion, platinum US$3 billion while chrome, iron, steel, diamonds and coal will contribute US$1 billion each.

Lithium is expected to contribute US$500 million while other minerals contribute US$1,5 billion.
In an interview with Sunday Business, Eng Kaguru said using innovative technologies has improved his productivity and maximised the mine potential, which has seen him clock close to US$2 million last year, up from a previous US$250 000 per annum.

“Of the US$4 billion that the Government is targeting in gold production this requires a strategic approach, investment in modern technology and expert guidance. Our mine is a prime example of how deliberate steps towards growth can yield significant results.”

He said by investing in stamp mills, a ball mill and in proper machinery such as a hoist and head gear, the mine was able to achieve close to US$2 million in 2022, up from a previous US$250 000 per annum.

Eng Kaguru said the mine also recruited trained miners to shift from relying on unsustainable methods such as contract and artisanal miners.

“The mine sunk a shaft and is currently sinking another one, investing close to a million dollars to achieve exponential growth.

The mine has also bought new equipment such as a hoist and an excavator, and is set to invest in a milling centre including jaw crushers and ball mills. This whole combination of factors allows for growth,” he said.

Eng Kaguru said as they as adapt to innovative technologies, they were mechanising underground operations by installing coco pans, among other measures.

He said the growth of the mine which has been self-financed, has as seen the mine engage teams of experts such as geologists, surveyors, metallurgists, and mechanical consultants to map its growth.

“The lack of expert guidance is a dilemma for many artisanal miners, and the Government’s goal can be achieved if miners are encouraged to seek expert guidance which is lacking from most miners. Miners need to make a deliberate effort to grow and align themselves to the national target,” he added.

Eng Kaguru said they have established the nature of the mine reefs and were now sourcing diamond drilling machinery for exploration.

Currently, the headcount at the mine stands at 400, both contractors and employees, while the mine was going to second and third levels to achieve its growth and align itself with the national target.

“As a way of assisting the community we are operating in, we are also training the community members on how to mine in a safe manner.

Most miners practice unsafe and illegal methods of mining due to lack of formalisation and expert guidance. This then hinders their growth and they realise less from their operations,” said Eng Kaguru.