Mnangagwa challenges miners to embrace innovation

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday urged the mining industry to leverage technology and innovation to enhance operations and productivity. Speaking at the Chamber of Mines Zimbabwe 2024 annual mining conference in Victoria Falls, Mnangagwa, represented by Mines Minister Winston Chitando, emphasized the need for innovation in the sector.

"The mining industry must harness the power of technology and innovation to optimise mining operations and enhance productivity. The fourth industrial revolution presents unprecedented opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks in the mining sector," he stated.

Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of digitalisation, automation, and renewable energy in creating a resilient and competitive mining industry, stressing the priority of worker well-being and safety. "By embracing digitalisation, automation, and renewable energy solutions, we can create a more resilient and competitive mining industry. We must never lose sight of the human dimension of mining. The well-being and safety of our workers must always be our top priority."

He underscored the government's commitment to responsible resource management and sustainable development, advocating for environmentally sound mining practices, skills development, and equitable benefit-sharing with local communities. "We must strive to create a workplace culture that values diversity, promotes inclusivity, and upholds the highest standards of occupational health and safety. Let us approach the challenges and opportunities before us with courage, determination, and vision."

Mnangagwa also noted the critical role of mining in the economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and infrastructure development. "Mining has long been the cornerstone of our economy. To restore the viability of mining operations in Zimbabwe, we must adopt a multi-faceted approach that addresses both short-term challenges and long-term sustainability. This requires collaboration and partnership between government, industry stakeholders, and local communities."

Despite challenges like weak commodity prices, power supply constraints, foreign exchange shortages, capital constraints, and high taxes, Mnangagwa reaffirmed the government's efforts to create an enabling environment for investment and innovation. This includes streamlining regulatory processes, improving infrastructure, and providing fiscal incentives to attract both domestic and foreign investment.

"The government continues to undertake extensive infrastructural initiatives such as rehabilitating roads, upgrading airports, enhancing power generation, particularly through the expansion of the Hwange Power Station, and constructing dams. These efforts are aimed at establishing essential foundations for the development of our economic sectors, including mining."

Mnangagwa concluded with a call for collaborative efforts to navigate current challenges and build a prosperous future for Zimbabwe. "Together, we can navigate these turbulent times and restore the viability of mining operations in Zimbabwe. By working collaboratively, we can build a brighter, more prosperous future for Zimbabwe and all its people."