By Patience Gondo
MUTAPA Gold Resources, in partnership with Zimbabwe School of Mines, has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at training and formalising artisanal and small scale miners across the country.
The programme targets more than 1 500 miners and is expected to improve safety, productivity and sustainability within the artisanal and small-scale mining sector.
Speaking during the launch, General Manager responsible for Contract Mining Tirivashe Vere, said the initiative would combine classroom instruction with practical field training to equip miners with technical and operational skills.
He said the programme would also adopt a train the trainer approach designed to expand its reach by enabling trained participants to pass on knowledge and skills within their respective mining communities.
Vere said the long-term goal was to help artisanal miners transition into sustainable and professionally managed operations capable of adapting to different mining methods and environments.
“We want to see artisanal miners becoming more organised, efficient and sustainable in the way they operate,” he said.
As part of the initiative, Mutapa Gold Resources is also developing an artisanal mining cost model with support from professional accountants, mining engineers and metallurgists.
The model is expected to assist miners in improving financial planning, production management and operational efficiency.
Vere als said the company’s partner, Magaya, has opened its processing plant for optimisation studies and practical learning opportunities aimed at improving gold recovery rates among small-scale miners.
Mining remains one of Zimbabwe’s key economic sectors, contributing significantly to export earnings, employment creation and foreign currency generation. Gold, platinum, lithium and chrome mining have continued to attract investment and support economic growth in both urban and rural communities.
The artisanal and small-scale mining sector has become particularly important in recent years, employing thousands of Zimbabweans and contributing a substantial share of the country’s gold deliveries.
Increased mining activity has also stimulated the growth of supporting industries such as transport, engineering, equipment supply and financial services.
Communities located near mining operations have also benefited through infrastructure development, including roads, schools, clinics and improved business opportunities.