Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve recently in HWANGE
HWANGE Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) Holdings has partnered Chinese firm Zhong Xia in a joint venture aimed at revitalising its 3 North Mine through a substantial US$60 million investment.
The collaboration is expected to quadruple the mine’s monthly production, boosting output from 50 000 to more than 200 000 tonnes by next year.
The underground mine, which had been operating at a reduced capacity for several years, has undergone a major transformation.
This includes the installation of modern infrastructure, the acquisition of new mining equipment and the creation of more than 400 jobs for locals, in addition to the employment of several Chinese expatriates.
With production projected to quadruple in the coming year, 3 North Mine is expected to become one of Zimbabwe’s leading coal producers, supplying both domestic and export markets.
During a recent tour of the mine, Mining Consultant Mr Ackim Mutiti shared detailed insights into the progress made under the partnership.
“Where we are now, we have got three tunnels going down at an inclination of 12 degrees, intersecting coal at a length of about one kilometre. At that point, the coal lies approximately 240 metres below the surface. To date, we have mined almost two kilometres from the surface. Currently, we are producing about 50 000 tonnes a month, but by this time next year, we will be producing over 200 000 tonnes a month, thanks to the commissioning of state-of-the-art long wire equipment,” he said.
Mr Mutiti explained that the mine now uses continuous miners and road headers, eliminating the need for explosives and ensuring a safer working environment.
“We don’t use any explosives, so this is a very safe method of mining. Over US$60 million has been invested in road headers and continuous miners, and we will also be introducing long-haul mining, which involves shearers and armoured face conveyors,” he said.
The partnership between Hwange Colliery and Zhong Xia marks a significant step in reviving Zimbabwe’s coal industry, which plays a vital role in power generation and industrial operations.
Speaking on the broader impact of the mine’s revival, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, who visited the company, emphasised coal’s importance in Zimbabwe’s energy and industrial ecosystem.
“The revitalisation of 3 North Mine is a testament to the success of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth. Coal remains a key component in our power generation and industrial processes, and this investment will significantly enhance our energy security and create much-needed employment,” he said.
Dr Muswere reiterated Government’s commitment to supporting such ventures, which align with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030 goals of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
The mine’s revival has brought relief to the Hwange community, with hundreds of previously unemployed locals now earning a livelihood.
“This company is a partnership between Hwange Colliery and the Chinese company Zhong Xia. We now have about 400 locals and around 100 Chinese working here,” said Mr Mutiti.
The introduction of advanced mining technology not only improves efficiency but also reduces environmental impact, aligning with global best practices in sustainable mining.
The investment also strengthens Zimbabwe-China economic ties, showcasing the potential for further collaboration in the mining sector.
As the mine continues to expand, stakeholders anticipate increased job creation, higher revenue for the national fiscus, and a stronger contribution to Zimbabwe’s industrial and energy sectors.
Peter Tanyanyiwa