By Tadiwa Jery
Platinum mining in Zimbabwe started back in 1992 after Mimosa Mining took over from Union Carbide Zimbabwe. This mineral has the potential to catapult the nation’s economy to unprecedented heights and Zimbabweans should take advantage of its deposits which are in Darwendale and Mhondoro Ngezi, Mash West.
A troy ounce (31.1g) of platinum ranges from USD1,055 to USD1,320 according to APMEX 2021. It is one of the most used heavy metal in engineering to make catalytic convertors for cars, laboratory equipment and electrical contacts and electrodes. If Zimbabwe adopts such value addition of platinum for export, it will give the nation much needed foreign currency.
In jewelry, platinum is used to make rings, necklaces, watches, ear wear and this already has a thriving global market. There is also need for investment in turning this minerals to finish products that are huge in the fashion industry.
Unki mine based in Shurugwi is under an expansion program to increase capacity from 179 000 tons per month to 210 000 tons per month. This is an evident game changer for the nation’s mining industry. Great Dyke Investments based in Darwendale Mash West employs 360 people and aim to produce 3,45 million tons of platinum group of metals per year.
Mimosa and Zimplats are also huge players that are working to contribute towards the mining vision of a 12 billion dollar mining economy by 2023 and vision 2030.
