‘Stories of growth and sustainability’

SPEECH by Dr Jenfan Muswere, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services at the 12th edition of the Mining Media Awards, 21 November 2025, Crowne Plaza Monomotapa, Harare.
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Salutations:

His Excellency, the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Zhou Ding;

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Dr Polite Kambamura;

The Chairman of the Adjudication Committee, Mr John Masuku;

Minex Chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere

Industry leaders and captains of the mining sector;

The organisers of the Mining Media Awards,

Senior Government officials here present;

Representatives of the Chamber of Mines and the Zimbabwe Miners Federation;

Members of the media fraternity;

Sponsors and partners, including other supporting organisations;

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen —

Good evening.

It is an honour and a privilege to join you tonight as we celebrate the 12th Edition of the Mining Media Awards, an event that recognises the exceptional work of journalists who tell the story of Zimbabwe’s mining industry — the story of our national wealth, our people’s resilience and our collective pursuit of prosperity.

The chosen theme for this year’s awards, “Stories of Growth and Sustainability,” is both timely and inspiring. It speaks to the progress we have made as a nation in developing our mining sector and to our commitment to ensuring that this growth endures — socially, economically, and environmentally.

This evening, we celebrate the storytellers — the journalists who, through their pens, lenses, and microphones, document the transformation of one of Zimbabwe’s most strategic sectors. The Mining Media Awards have, over the years, become a powerful platform for acknowledging excellence, integrity and professionalism in mining journalism.

Through their work, mining journalists help to build bridges between communities, investors, and policymakers. They shine a light on challenges while highlighting opportunities and innovations that drive sustainable development. In doing so, they play a vital role in advancing the vision of the Second Republic, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, whose philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind” continues to shape Zimbabwe’s growth trajectory.

The mining sector remains a cornerstone of our economy — a driver of exports, employment creation and industrial growth. But beyond the statistics lies a deeper story — one of human endeavour, environmental stewardship, technological progress and community upliftment. It is this broader story of mining that we are here to celebrate tonight.

As Government, we are acutely aware that informed and responsible media coverage contributes directly to the success of our development agenda. The National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) identifies mining as a key pillar of Vision 2030 and the role of the media in communicating developments within the sector cannot be overstated.

The media serves as both a mirror and a catalyst — reflecting progress while stimulating dialogue and accountability. It is through balanced and factual reporting that we build investor confidence, promote good governance and encourage transparency in resource management.

We therefore commend journalists who dedicate their craft to covering mining and economic development. Their work demands not only technical understanding but also courage, diligence, and ethical responsibility. The stories they tell — of growth, sustainability and transformation — help us all to see the bigger picture of Zimbabwe’s journey toward inclusive prosperity.

I wish to take this opportunity to commend the organisers, Mejrkh Communications, for their consistent efforts in nurturing this platform over the past twelve years. You have built a respected institution that bridges two essential sectors — mining and media — and your work continues to strengthen professional standards while inspiring new generations of journalists.

I also extend heartfelt appreciation to corporate partners who have supported this initiative. Your investment in recognising excellence demonstrates foresight and social responsibility, affirming the importance of collaboration between business and media in driving sustainable development.

To our colleagues from the mining industry, I applaud your continued co-operation with journalists. Open engagement, access to information and transparent communication are the building blocks of a responsible and globally competitive mining sector. When we share stories of growth, we inspire confidence and invite further participation in Zimbabwe’s development journey.

To the journalists gathered here tonight — your role is indispensable. You are the custodians of truth and the chroniclers of progress. The mining story you tell must continue to evolve — capturing not only production figures and profits, but also the human stories behind the statistics: stories of innovation, community empowerment, environmental care and shared prosperity.

As new technologies transform both the media and mining industries, we must embrace innovation in how we tell these stories. Digital platforms, data journalism and multimedia storytelling now offer fresh ways to reach broader audiences. Let us use these tools to showcase Zimbabwe’s mining renaissance to the world — a story rooted in growth, sustainability and opportunity.

Tonight’s awards remind us that excellence in journalism is not merely about recognition, but about responsibility. It is about using one’s craft to advance the national interest, uphold truth and promote unity. As the Ministry responsible for the information and media sector, we remain committed to building a professional, inclusive and development-oriented media environment — one that supports innovation and amplifies the national vision of growth with sustainability.

To the award winners of this 12th edition, I extend my warmest congratulations. Your work stands as a beacon of dedication and excellence. May your achievements tonight inspire even greater storytelling that contributes to national progress.

To all participants — those who submitted entries, those who reported from the mines, and those who continue to document this vital sector — I say thank you. You are part of a larger narrative that defines who we are as a nation and where we are going.

As we celebrate tonight, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to telling “Stories of Growth and Sustainability.” Let those stories reflect the promise of a Zimbabwe that continues to rise — built on resilience, innovation, and unity of purpose.

Together, let us use the power of information to strengthen understanding, foster collaboration and advance sustainable growth for the benefit of present and future generations.

Thank you, congratulations to all the winners, and may God bless you all.