President Emmerson Mnangagwa marked a historic moment by commissioning phase one of the Kamativi Mine in Hwange, symbolizing a triumphant revival after a 30-year hiatus on Friday last week.
Formerly a tin mine shuttered in 1994, Kamativi now stands as a bastion of lithium exploration, mining, and processing, propelled by a joint venture between Sichuan PD Technology Group and local partner Defold Mine.
The Kamativi Mining Company unveiled its ambitious vision, with phase one poised to churn out 50,000 tonnes of concentrate annually. With a staggering investment totaling US$249 million, the company’s tenacity shines through, having already poured approximately US$100 million into the venture.
The President’s address underscored the monumental significance of this initiative, praising the concerted efforts of stakeholders and the broader community in resurrecting this industrial marvel. He lauded the creation of over 1,200 jobs, a testament to the project’s tangible impact on local livelihoods and the regional economy.
“The commissioning of this flotation plant is a step in the right direction as it moves this mine from being a mere resource extraction site thereby laying the foundation for a sustainable future. Well1994 done,” he said.
President Mnangagwa defiantly rebuffed the obstacles posed by illegal sanctions and climatic adversities, emphasizing Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to economic progress. The commissioning ceremony illuminated the nation’s emergence as a formidable player in the global lithium arena, rivaling industry stalwarts like Chile, Australia, and China.
With eyes set on the horizon, President Mnangagwa articulated a vision of sustainable development, urging stakeholders to harness the full potential of Zimbabwe’s abundant mineral wealth. Emphasizing the imperative of value addition and beneficiation, he championed a paradigm shift towards a robust industrial base, poised to drive the nation towards prosperity.
The President’s impassioned plea for equitable wealth distribution resonated deeply, echoing the! government’s steadfast dedication to inclusive growth and community empowerment. As the Kamativi Mine paves the way for a brighter future, President Mnangagwa’s rallying cry for integrity, responsibility, and social duty reverberates, serving as a clarion call for a new era of economic resilience and prosperity.
“This infrastructure will not only meet the respective needs of the company but those of the surrounding communities. I call upon the mining company and stakeholders to nurture harmony and peace characterised by strong collaboration and communication,” he said.
“The importance of a responsive and relevant environment, social and governance investment programmes cannot be overemphasised. These must be guided by the broader ongoing national development priority areas.” he said.
President Mnangagwa’s encourage investors to expand their scope beyond lithium and consider the potential of mining other valuable minerals present in the region, including tantalite, beryl, copper, beryllium, spodumene, petalite and limestone.