Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
STAKEHOLDERS in Zimbabwe’s mining sector have welcomed the government’s ban on the export of raw minerals, saying the policy will promote value addition and beneficiation while securing long-term national benefits.
Industry players say the move will ensure the country derives maximum value from its abundant mineral resources while safeguarding them for future generations.
“As we mine, let us realize that we won’t do so forever. It is therefore important to consider future generations, who should also benefit from the country’s rich resources, which will obviously one day run out,” a miner said.
Another stakeholder said the private sector should support the government’s efforts to manage the country’s resources responsibly.
“This is an important conversation we are having. As the private sector, we must embrace the strong resolve from the government as it addresses important matters of resource management and exploitation for the national benefit,” the stakeholder said.
Government officials say the policy is meant to transform the sector into a value-driven industry that supports national development.
Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister, Honourable Raj Modi said the directive should not be viewed as punitive but as a framework to strengthen governance and investor confidence in the mining sector.
“Compliance, therefore, must never be viewed as punishment; it is not an obstacle. It is a foundation for confidence, transparency, and investor trust. When governance systems are clear and predictable, investors gain confidence.”
The government believes that increased beneficiation and local processing of minerals will help create jobs, boost foreign currency earnings and support sustainable economic growth as Zimbabwe works towards achieving an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
