daniel chigunweVictor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
The mining sector plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy and the resources are pivotal for the national socio-economic development and integral to the aspirations outlined in Vision 2030, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Advocate Itayi Ndudzo has said.
He made the remarks during a recent tour of Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) in Goromonzi.
Minister Ndudzo was part of the delegation accompanying Vice President Kembo Mohadi on a tour of the Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe mine and processing plant.
“We gather here not only to witness the remarkable advancement in lithium mining but also to reflect on the broader potential of our province’s rich mineral endowments, which include gold in different districts and the select granite in Mutoko, among other array of mineral resources.
“These resources are pivotal to our national social economic development and are integral to the aspirations outlined in our national vision 2030.
“The mining sector plays a crucial role in our economy and the activities taking place here at Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe exemplify how we can harness these resources responsibly and sustainably.
“This company is not only a beacon of economic opportunity but also a catalyst for transformative development in Mashonaland East province,” he said.
Minister Ndudzo said the improvement of road infrastructure in Goromonzi should be applauded.
“The improvement in the transport network in Goromonzi not only facilitates efficient mining operations but also enhances accessibility for local communities, fostering greater connectivity in economic activity.
“In addition to these initiatives, Prospect-Lithium is actively engaged in various corporate social responsibility activities.
“These efforts reflect a deep commitment to the well-being of the communities in which they operate,” he said.
In his remarks, PLZ general manager Mr Henry Zhou said the company is grateful to the Government for its continued support.
“We are thrilled to have had an opportunity to showcase our operations to the Vice President.
“The Government’s support for the lithium industry is crucial to our success and we appreciate the Vice President’s interest in our project,” he said.
Mr Zhou said the company has received outstanding support from Government since its inception.
He said the support has adequately placed PLZ in a position to meaningfully contribute towards the country’s Vision 2030, that of becoming an upper-middle society as outlined in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
Beyond its business operations, PLZ has fully embraced its role in the development of Mashonaland East Province through various corporate social responsibility initiatives.
The company has successfully implemented projects in education development, community health, women and youth empowerment as well as skills development.
In December 2024, PLZ launched the US$1.2 million Goromonzi Community Development Projects in response to Zimbabwe’s vision of attaining an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Online Reporter