Zimbabwe's mineral beneficiation policy faces chal...

Zimbabwe's mineral beneficiation policy faces challenges

Nyashadzashe Ndoro

Chief Reporter

The Zimbabwe Government has reiterated its commitment to beneficiation, but the policy's implementation faces hurdles.

Senator Tambudzai Kunaka questioned the Leader of Government Business in the Senate about the government's efforts to add value to minerals, citing the country's reliance on humanitarian aid despite its rich mineral resources.

Minister of State for Presidential Affairs in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Lovemore Matuke responded saying: "The Government policy now is for beneficiation. We are now going to make sure that all the minerals are going to be processed in Zimbabwe."

However, Chief Fortune Charumbira expressed concern about the lack of timelines for implementation.

"I am aware that the story of processing our own raw materials has been on for decades across Africa. It would be useful if timelines are stated so that we are able to follow up. The words ‘as soon as possible’ do not have a timeline because this is a critical issue which creates employment in our country," he said.

Matuke acknowledged that some mines had been given timeframes to comply with the policy, but senator Irene Zindi raised concerns about the continued export of raw black granite, despite a policy pronouncement by the President to stop such exports.

"I think the issue of granite which is being exported in its raw form is very specific. I would say it is a specific question. There are quite a number of people who try to avoid laid-down policies by Government," said Matuke.

Zindi further cited the need for implementation, stating: "We should see a stop to the exportation of raw granite and it should be processed in this country."

The Minister acknowledged the issue and promised to take it up with the Minister of Mines and Mining Development.

"I will take note of what the Hon. Member has raised and put it before the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to check on those people who are exporting granite - they are actually avoiding the Government policy," he said.