Zimplats’ concentrator plant is the new addition to the mining giant. It’s commissioning last month set a new pace for the platinum group. The new plant processes ore and is a milestone in the value-addition of mineral resources to support sustainability in the mining industry. Moreso, this value-addition means the value of these minerals rises. Export of raw minerals means that returns are lower in comparison to adding value of such minerals.
Also, this new plant will help Zimbabwe get more value for minerals mined by Zimplats. Zimbabwe and other African nations currently export more minerals in their raw state. This means that in order to avoid a negative balance of payment, high volumes should be exported. This also means that there is need for more labour and time to mine the minerals. Therefore, export of such high volumes means loss of potential revenue due to the absence of adding value to them. Zimplats’ concentrator plant will help in reducing this loss of value to a certain extent. This plant is a success story from the group’s commitment to improve their mining practices. There is more to do but this is a step in the right direction.
Value-addition and beneficiation of natural resources is very vital for Zimbabwe’s economic development. It creates jobs, increases exports and generates revenue for the government. Zimplats’ concentrator plant will create about 6000 jobs. Citizens expect the government in turn to use that revenue to improve public goods and services. Therefore, it is the duty of all interested stakeholder in the mining sector to promote and support industries that add value to natural resources.
About Zimplats
Also, according to Zimplats 2022 integrated annual report, “Zimplats Holdings Limited is a limited liability company which is registered in Guernsey and is listed on the ASX. It is in the business of producing platinum group and associated metals. The Company is a subsidiary (87% shareholding) of one of the world’s leading producers of platinum group metals (PGMs), the South African based and listed Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats).”
Additionally, Zimplats is a member of the Implats Group and a leading Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) producer along the Great Dyke in Zimbabwe. They commit to supply PGMs needed to develop, sustain and improve the world and the lives of future generations. Zimplats recognises that good Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and quality principles are integral components of their mining and processing operations. Zimplats’ concentrator plant is one way it is working on improving Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
