Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
A US$15 million state-of-the-art gold ore processing plant is nearing completion in UMP district, marking a major milestone in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and reinforcing the country’s “Open for Business” drive.
The plant, being installed by Zimwin Mine, a Chinese-owned mining company operating in Sowa, is 90 percent complete and is expected to be commissioned next month.
Once operational, it will be the first world-class processing facility in the district, creating over 200 jobs and significantly boosting local gold beneficiation.
During a recent tour of the site, Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs Minister Advocate Itayi Ndudzo hailed the investment as a transformative development for the region.
“This is a massive project that will revolutionise gold processing in UMP,” said Minister Ndudzo. “Mashonaland East is rich in gold, particularly in Mutoko, UMP, and Goromonzi but our people have had to travel long distances to process their ores. Now, with this US$15 million plant, we will see local value addition, job creation, and economic growth.”
He added that the plant aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of rural industrialisation and mineral beneficiation, key pillars of Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
UMP MP Tichaona Karumazondo (ZANU PF) welcomed the investment, emphasising its role in job creation and community development.
“This project is a clear example of leaving no one and no place behind,” said Karumazondo. “We urge investors to continue respecting our laws and cultural values while working closely with communities for mutual benefit.”
Zimwin Mine Manager, Engineer Sean Murambidzi, confirmed that the plant will not only serve the mine, but also process ore from surrounding small-scale miners.
“Once operational, this facility will employ over 200 people and support local miners by reducing transport costs and increasing efficiency,” said Eng Murambidzi.
With over 860 registered gold claims in UMP, the plant is expected to unlock greater productivity in the district’s mining sector.
The plant is set to be officially opened by the President in the coming weeks, marking another step in Zimbabwe’s push toward mineral-led economic growth.
