ZMDC to revive Kamativi Tin Mines

Tin Mines.
The mines, which opened in 1936 and are situated in Matabeleland North province, were closed in June 1994 due to lack of viability stemming from depression of international tin prices and falling ore grades.
The depression emanated from the devastating tin price crash in 1985 when, overnight, the price crashed from about US$10 000 per tonne to less than US$4 000.
ZMDC general manager Mr Sam Siziba told New Ziana his organisation had engaged about 20 companies across the globe in search of a suitable partner to enter into a joint venture with.
“We hope to conclude talks with the investor by August and from there we will work on other modalities that will eventually lead to the reopening of the mine at the appropriate time,” Mr Siziba said.
“At the moment we cannot disclose the investor and the amount required to restart the mine since it is still subject to negotiations.”
He said most of the requisite infrastructure was still in place.
“Infrastructure is already there, what is needed is capital to build processing plants for tin and other by-products like tantalite and lithium to recover every possible mineral.” he said.
He said that tin was currently faring well on the international market.
“Tin at the moment is fetching around US$26 000 per tonne on the international market. The price is quite encouraging and brings hope to the sector,” he said. – New Ziana.