Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
A POTENTIAL economic boom is on the horizon for Chipinge District, as a coal exploration exercise currently underway may yield positive results, diversifying the local economy beyond its traditional reliance on plantations and agriculture.
The Manica Post can reveal that Muzururi Mining Development, a local company, commenced the coal exploration this month, with completion of the exercise expected next month.
The exploration seeks to determine whether sufficient coal deposits exist to support an economically viable mining venture.
The exploration is focused on the Masvingo Mining District, specifically the Madhuku, Mareya, and Zamuchiya areas, where Muzururi was granted a special coal exploration permit by the Mining Affairs Board in 2024.
The permit remains valid until August 2027.
When reached for comment, Manicaland Provincial Mining Director, Engineer Sibongubuhli Mpindiwa confirmed the exploration, adding that the exercise is being conducted transparently.
“The coal exploration underway in Chipinge is entirely legal. For more detailed information, please contact the Mining Affairs Board, as they are responsible for issuing coal grants,” said Engineer Mpindiwa.
Further queries were directed to the Mining Affairs Board secretary, one Mr Chieza, who in turn referred this reporter to the board chairman, Mr Pfungwa Kunaka, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.
“Please, email your questions to the board chairman,” said Mr Chieza.
Muzururi Mining Development director, Mr Daniel Chatora on Wednesday clarified that the company has not commenced actual mining operations, but is instead focused on collecting samples for testing.
He alleviated community concerns about alleged illegal mining activities, saying his company has engaged with local villagers.
“We are conducting coal exploration in Chipinge District, which is an initial phase to determine the presence of coal deposits.
“Actual mining is still a distant prospect. If we discover coal, we will collect samples to assess its suitability for various uses, including coking, thermal, and others.
“Our exploration began on July 1, 2025, and is expected to take approximately two months. We hold a special grant for this purpose, and are currently drilling for samples,” said Mr Chatora.
He said the company has already conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment, which involved community engagement.
“This can be verified at the Environmental Management Agency in Chipinge.
“Notably, this marks our first attempt at coal exploration in Zimbabwe,” said Mr Chatora.
Chipinge Rural District Council chairman, Alderman Godfrey Makuyana revealed that the council is resolving procedural issues with the prospective miner to ensure transparency and community awareness.
“The company is prospecting for coal in the Madhuku, Mareya, and Zamuchiya areas. Initially, there was a breakdown in communication, which is being addressed.
“The council and local leadership did not receive courtesy calls or briefings on the process,” said Alderman Makuyana, emphasising the importance of protecting community interests in the event of coal discovery.
“We are optimistic about the presence of coal deposits in the areas. If discovered, coal mining will undoubtedly boost our district’s economy and uplift the lives of our communities.
“Our people should be the primary beneficiaries of their natural resources, aligning with Government’s Vision 2030 of achieving an upper middle class economy,” he added.
