Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Mineral Development Policy is nearing finalisation with 96 percent of the drafting process completed, while the Online Permit System has seen 90 percent ground covered, Cabinet announced on Tuesday.
In a post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere gave an update on some developments in the Mines ministry.
“In terms of the Economic Growth and Stability pillar of the National Development Strategy 1, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development highlighted the following projects under his purview: the establishment of an Online Permit system is at 90 percent of completion, drafting of the Mineral Development Policy is 96 percent complete and construction of the Palm River Energy Plant in Beitbridge is on course,” said Dr Muswere.
The US$3.6 billion Palm River Energy Metallurgical Special Economic Zone, commissioned by President Mnangagwa in Beitbridge, is projected to generate approximately US$1.7 billion by 2030.
The project is poised to make a significant contribution toward Zimbabwe’s vision of achieving upper-middle-income status by that year.
Added Dr Muswere: “The expansion of the Zimplats Sulphur Dioxide Abatement Plant in Mashonaland West Province is on track and the establishment of the Disco Carbon Steel Plant in Chivhu-Mvuma, Mashonaland East and Midlands Provinces is 100 percent complete,” Dr Muswere noted.
In its quarterly update, Zimplats said the Smelter Expansion and SO₂ Abatement Plant continues to make solid progress, with US$452 million spent to date out of a total US$544 million budget.
