Online Reporter
Features and Supplements Writer
Zimbabwe’s mining industry is poised for significant growth in 2025, with a projected increase of over seven percent driven by strong performances in gold and coal.
According to the Chamber of Mines Zimbabwe (CoMZ), gold output rose by 35 percent in the first quarter, while coal production surged by 61 percent. The sector is expected to generate US$6,2 billion in revenue, up from US$5,9 billion in 2024.
Addressing the media ahead of the 2025 Annual Mining Conference held in Victoria Falls last month, Chamber of Mines Zimbabwe chief executive officer, Mr Isaac Kwesu, said the performance of coal and gold in the first quarter had raised expectations of growth this year.
“We anticipate the mining industry to grow by plus or minus seven percent in 2025, which is a significant number in terms of both volume and value,” he said.
“The stellar performance came from gold, which witnessed about 35 percent growth. Coal was also up by as much as 61 percent, which means its weight to the national mining output has also increased.”
Gold is expected to continue driving exports, with its share increasing to 40 percent from 25 percent, supported by high global prices that have touched record highs of $3 000 per ounce. Other minerals, which were subdued in the first quarter, are expected to recover in the second half of the year.
“The robust growth in gold and coal production is encouraging and underscores the resilience of Zimbabwe’s mining sector,” said Mrs Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi, an economist.
“A 35 percent increase in gold output alongside a 61 percent surge in coal represents an achievement that will translate into stronger export earnings and economic benefits.”
To sustain this momentum, policymakers must prioritise streamlining regulatory frameworks, enhancing value addition, and investing in infrastructure.
“To capitalise on this momentum, policymakers must streamline regulatory frameworks, enhance value addition through beneficiation and invest in infrastructure to support projects,” said economist Mr Tinevimbo Shava.
The CoMZ’s Annual Mining Conference held from May 21 to 24 in Victoria Falls, provided a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss critical issues shaping the sector’s future.
The conference featured expert speakers, including Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor, Dr John Mushayavanhu, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Deputy Minister David Mnangagwa; and Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) Commissioner-General, Mrs Monica Chinamasa.
It focused on topics such as economic contribution, local content, energy solutions, and environmental issues.
With optimism surrounding the sector’s growth prospects, the conference aimed to facilitate meaningful discussions and solutions to drive growth and development in the mining industry.
As Mr Kwesu noted, “The overall growth outlook remains positive.”
Peter Tanyanyiwa