SYDNEY MUBAIWA
ZVISHAVANE-The Government has pledged unequivocal support for Mimosa Mine’s ambitions towards extending its life span for the next 25 years.
Speaking during a tour of the mine by government officials on Friday, Mimosa Mines Managing Director, Fungai Makoni applauded government for coming on board at a critical time, a development set to increase production and the life span of the giant mine.
“We are grateful to the government for stepping in at such a critical moment. As a mine, we have been facing several challenges, the most pressing of which was the declining lifespan of the operation. This support is instrumental as it will enable us to enhance both production and productivity.”
The fall of world metal prices over the last three years has seen big giants in the mining industry like Mimosa Mines losing at least 40 percent of revenue, hence reducing the lifespan of the mine and crippling its operations.
In an effort to see the mine expand its lifespan to more than 20 years and boost the mining economy, government has pledged its support towards Mimosa Mines’ quest.
Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Winston Chitando, commended the miner’s proactive investment, particularly the recent completion of a US$38 million optimisation plant and a US$78 million tailings storage facility.
“We are here as government to deliberate on sustainable solutions. The completion of key infrastructure such as the optimisation plant and tailings facility clearly demonstrates Mimosa’s commitment to national economic development.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube, underscored the government’s readiness to facilitate the miner’s ambitions, which include the development of a new resource base capable of extending operations by another 15 years.
“We have heard their concerns and aspirations, particularly the intent to unlock another 15 years of mining life. As Government, we are prepared to support this vision to ensure continued economic contribution and community sustenance,” he said.
The platinum miner intends to build a 38-megawatt solar power station to provide more energy for its operations and contribute to government efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
