Chiwenga puts corrupt govt officials on notice

Acting President Constantino Chiwenga has officially opened the Mine Entra 2025 exhibition in Bulawayo, where he reaffirmed government's strong stance against corruption, illicit trading, and mineral leakages within Zimbabwe's mining sector.

In his keynote address, Chiwenga emphasized that transparency, accountability, and community engagement remain central to the government's mining agenda.

"There is a strong stance against corruption, illicit trading, and leakages, with government implementing licensing transparency, regular audits, community engagement, and whistleblower protection," he said.

Chiwenga described Mine Entra as a strategic platform for shaping Zimbabwe's mining, engineering, and transport sectors, urging both public and private stakeholders to work towards sustainable and inclusive development.

He noted that the mining industry currently contributes 70% of the country's export earnings, 14.5% of GDP, and supports thousands of livelihoods, making it a cornerstone of the national economy and a key driver in the transition from National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) to NDS2 under Vision 2030.

The Acting President also highlighted the importance of the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, which seeks to modernize the sector by enforcing accountability, transparency, and corporate social responsibility. He said the Bill will ensure that mining benefits local communities through the development of schools, clinics, roads, and other sustainable projects.

Commending major ongoing initiatives such as the Palm River Energy Plant and Zimplats Smelter Expansion, Chiwenga encouraged greater collaboration with research institutions to advance innovation through geospatial mapping, artificial intelligence, and automation.

He further stressed the need for mining operations to be environmentally sustainable and community-conscious, aligning Zimbabwe with the Africa Mining Vision (2009) and the SADC Protocol on Mining (1997), both of which promote climate resilience, renewable energy, and ecosystem restoration.

"Zimbabwe is open for business, but not for mere extraction. We seek mutual partnerships that empower citizens and protect the environment," he said.

Chiwenga concluded by positioning Mine Entra as a launchpad for partnerships, investments, and policy alignment that will drive the mining sector beyond extraction, fueling national renewal and inclusive growth.