Online Reporter
BULAWAYO’S once bustling industrial area had in recent times gone through a trying time as many companies and factories shut down.
The engines had been silenced, industry pipes had grown cold and the sweat had dried on the brows of working men and women whose pathways had petered out from lanes to stubble-riddled roads to plain grasslands.
However, a sudden and deliberate attempt by the Government to promote the ease of doing business and positive policies that attract investment back into the industries has seen new life being breathed into the famed area.
It looks well on course yet again to become the bastion of industry in the nation and take pride in place as the backbone of the national economy.
One of the flag-bearing companies that is leading the trek back into production is the nationally renowned and reputable Antech Laboratory which is a market leader in mining-related laboratory solutions for the mining industry.
Once domiciled primarily in Kwekwe in the Midlands where it has operated head and shoulders above its peers, the laboratory has been enticed by growing demand and the need to service a booming Bulawayo and environs mining community to open its doors in Bulawayo.
The crowning moment will see the opening of a state-of-the art laboratory in Donnington, which will see clients from the region being given world-class service in their own neighbourhood without having to travel hundreds of kilometres to seek important data to aid them in their operations. The laboratory shall officially be opened on Tuesday 4 March.
Speaking ahead of the launch Antech Laboratory Manager Mr Edson Luwobo expressed his excitement at having to service the Matabeleland demographic which had previously been left behind despite it being an important and colossal cog in the mining sector in Zimbabwe.
“It is a great honour to finally open Antech Laboratories’ new mining lab here in Bulawayo. Tuesday shall see the commencement of not just a celebration for us at Antech — it is a milestone for the entire mining community in Matabeleland and beyond,” said Mr Luwobo ecstatically.
He revealed how the new lab would mean easier access, shorter periods of getting important data and efficiency for the region.
“For years, miners from this region had to travel to Kwekwe to have their samples tested. We recognised the challenge, the costs, and the delays this created. That is why we are proud to introduce this fully equipped laboratory right here in Bulawayo — to bring world-class mineral testing closer to the mining operations of Matabeleland. This facility is designed to provide accurate, efficient, and timely results, supporting responsible mining and helping businesses maximise their potential,” said Mr Luwobo.
Under the banner of Clarity Capital, the laboratory will serve both small and large-scale clients aligning with the national vision of the Government that speaks of leaving no one and no place behind as well as ensuring that mining becomes a ten-plus billion-dollar industry by the year 2030 in line with the national vision of making Zimbabwe attain upper-middle-class economic status which is currently well on track.
“At Antech, we believe in quality service. This new lab represents our commitment to the mining industry, ensuring that miners, both small and large-scale, have access to the best analytical services without having to travel long distances,” said Mr Luwobo.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to our team, our partners, and everyone who played a role in making this vision a reality and look forward to welcoming them to both our services as well as to the official opening ceremony this coming Tuesday. Together, we look forward to continue shaping a future where mining in Matabeleland thrives with efficiency and integrity,” he added.
The official opening is expected to attract and draw key figures and stakeholders in the mining sector including provincial Government officials and representatives, mining industry giants as well as key mining industry players, some of whom have long been clients of Antech Laboratories even ahead of their opening a Bulawayo branch.
