Sundaymail Editor
Business Reporter
THE Government says it is dedicated to fostering a favourable environment that encourages sustainable mining practices, promotes responsible investment and guarantees adherence to stringent environmental standards.
This comes at a time when the mineral buying market increasingly requires resources from responsible and sustainable mining practices. At the same time, investors are becoming more environmentally and socially conscious, pushing companies to adopt responsible mining practices.
Mining and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando delivered these remarks at the inaugural Swedish-Zimbabwean Sustainable Mining Expo, organised by the Swedish Embassy and Business Sweden, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency.
The event served as a crucial platform for facilitating collaboration, exchanging expertise and driving innovation within the mining sector between the two countries.
It also sought to provide Zimbabwean and Swedish stakeholders with an opportunity to share best mining practices and technology, and explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities.
Partnering with Swedish companies is vital for the local mining sector, as they provide cutting-edge technology and solutions globally, including Zimbabwe.
Notably, Swedish-made equipment dominates the underground mining industry worldwide. It accounts for over 70 percent of the equipment used.
The Government is undertaking several initiatives to enhance transparency, promote responsible investment and ensure environmental compliance.
The ongoing initiatives include strengthening mining regulations through amendment of the Mines and Minerals Act, enforcing environmental standards through responsible mining audits, promoting community engagement and benefit-sharing programmes, encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and supporting research and development in sustainable mining practices.
While addressing delegates at the expo, Minister Chitando emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to fully harness the local mining sector’s potential, while ensuring that environmental protection and community empowerment remain top priorities.
“Zimbabwe possesses a wealth of mineral resources, and the mining industry is expected to play a vital role towards the attainment of Vision 2030. However, we recognise the critical need to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
“As such, our Government is committed to creating a conducive environment for sustainable mining practices, and this expo aligns perfectly with our Government’s vision for a sustainable and inclusive mining sector. Let us work together to unlock the full potential of Zimbabwe’s mining sector while safeguarding our environment and uplifting our communities,” said Minister Chitando.
The idea of hosting a mining expo originated from discussions between Swedish company representatives and the embassy during a visit to Johannesburg in June last year.
These interactions revealed a shared conviction among the companies that Zimbabwe, particularly its mining industry, holds vast potential for further business development and collaboration.
In his remarks at the exhibition, Sweden’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Per Lindgärde, said Sweden is dedicated to backing Zimbabwe’s pursuit of a more sustainable mining sector by harnessing Swedish expertise and innovative solutions, which have already made Sweden a global leader in sustainable mining.
“Zimbabwe is a key player in the global mining industry. It possesses abundant critical minerals essential for the energy transition, such as platinum and lithium. Realising the full potential of Zimbabwe’s mining industry requires a robust and well-connected infrastructure network.
“Swedish companies can contribute to unlocking Zimbabwe’s potential through investments, advanced mining technologies and sustainable practices. They are leading the way worldwide in developing electric, automated and digitalised equipment and infrastructure, as well as green transport and energy solutions,” said Ambassador Lindgärde.
Swedish Director-General for Trade Policy Ms Camilla Mellander said Zimbabwe and Sweden share a common interest in the significance of mining as an industry and business sector.
As such, Sweden is keen to support Zimbabwe in unlocking its full potential and capacity in this area.
“As you might know, Sweden has more than 1 000 years of experience as a mining nation with a long track record of sustainability and innovation in mining. Hence, collaboration with Zimbabwe strives for sustainability, while maximising benefits for the economy. That is why we need to work together between Government, the academia, the business community and civil society to develop the best sustainable solutions and practices in all business sectors.
“The mining sector is instrumental in this endeavour and needs to be at the heart of society in contributing to strong, inclusive and sustainable economic development.
“It is evident that innovation and developing new technologies are key for a green and digital transition that benefits us, our children and future generations,” said Ms Mellander.
Swedish companies have achieved a groundbreaking innovation with the development of technology to produce fossil-free steel. A pilot plant for testing sponge iron production was launched in 2020, and upon full implementation, this technology is expected to significantly reduce Sweden’s carbon footprint.
The exhibition was also attended by officials of the Swedish Trade and Invest Council; Luleå Technical University; and Swedish Mining and Minerals, a joint innovations programme that aims to tackle current and future challenges.
Online Reporter