adminLatwell Nyangu
A CHINESE mining firm, Ming Chang Sino Africa’s Investments, is targeting employing thousands of locals at its gold mining operations in Odzi, Manicaland.
The company currently employs 60 local workers, after starting operations in May.
Despite incurring losses, due to theft of fuel and other consumables, management is adamant that the dust will soon settle.
Mine director, Liu Xiaolong, said they were positive locals will benefit more from their investment and operations.
“Despite us losing thousands of litres of fuel every month, we are hopeful that the locals will benefit more.
“At least 6 000l to 10 000l have been stolen.
“An internal audit exposed all this after we investigated and caught some workers draining fuel which they sell to small-scale gold miners in the area,” said Xialong.
He added:
“We commenced operations in May and we are targeting to employ thousands of local employees.
“Since we started in May, we have employed over 100 people, 60 of them being locals.
“In phase two of the project, we hope to employ 60 more permanently and the combined figure could double as the project grows with targets to hit 300 employees, minimum.”
He said they were putting their efforts into rehabilitating surrounding areas.
“Our focus is on investing in rehabilitating roads and shops in the area.
“Indications are that these are very good deposits and the mine’s lifespan is quite long.
“We are ready to invest millions into this project.
“We are currently doing open cast mining,” said Xiaolong.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter