Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
INDUSTRY and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi has urged players in the mining sector to collaborate in establishing mineral value addition and beneficiation plants, saying such cooperation will create real value, generate employment and drive industrialisation.
He made the remarks while addressing delegates at the fourth edition of the Business Manoeuvre held in Bulawayo at the weekend, where he was the guest of honour.
He said that through collaboration, Zimbabwe can unlock new industries, create quality jobs and strengthen its manufacturing base.
In this regard, Deputy Minister Modi said Bulawayo — formerly Zimbabwe’s industrial hub — is well positioned to spearhead such initiatives.
He noted that the city possesses the industrial heritage, skilled workforce and strategic location required to promote mineral processing, manufacturing and value addition for the benefit of both the region and the country.
“As guided by the vision of our President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe must move beyond the mere extraction of minerals towards value addition and beneficiation through processing, which will create real wealth, industrialise our economy and secure prosperity for future generations,” said Deputy Minister Modi.
“Equally important is the issue of responsible and sustainable mining. As we extract our mineral resources, we must do so in a manner that protects our environment and safeguards the livelihoods of future generations.”
Deputy Minister Modi said sustainable mining practices and adherence to regulatory frameworks are essential for long-term economic stability.
“Sustainable mining practices and compliance with regulatory frameworks are therefore not an obstacle to growth but a foundation for long-term economic stability. Compliance must never be viewed as punishment,” he said.
The Government has implemented a ban on the export of raw minerals, including lithium concentrates, as part of efforts to promote domestic processing and value addition.
The move underscores the Government’s commitment to strengthening industrial development and driving economic transformation by ensuring the country derives greater benefit from its mineral resources.
Running under the theme “Strategic Mining and Compliance for Sustainable Economic Growth,” the event attracted participants from across the mining sector, with individuals involved in community development initiatives receiving honorary awards.
Deputy Minister Modi said compliance fosters confidence, transparency and investor trust within the mining sector.
“When Government systems are clear and predictable, investors gain confidence. When accountability is strengthened, industries grow sustainably,” he said.
“As the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, we continue to encourage miners and investors to work together in establishing processing plants and integrating value chains that allow the country to beneficiate its mineral resources locally.”
Deputy Minister Modi said the approach aligns with Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
“Platforms such as Business Manoeuvre are important because they strengthen dialogue between Government and the private sector. Sustainable growth can only be achieved when these two sectors work together collaboratively and strategically,” he said.
Deputy Minister Modi urged players in the mining sector to strengthen compliance and promote responsible mining.
“Let us invest in manufacturing and value addition. Above all, let us work together to build a stronger and more prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
