Hwange Colliery Revives Coke Oven Battery in US$...

Hwange Colliery Revives Coke Oven Battery in US$8.1 Million Investment Push

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

Hwange Colliery Company Limited has taken a major step toward revitalising its operations, committing US$8.1 million to bring its long-idle coke oven battery back to life after more than a decade of dormancy.

The strategic move is expected to push monthly coke production to over 18 000 tonnes, restoring HCCL’s position as a key player in Zimbabwe’s coal and energy sector.

HCCL managing director William Gambiza confirmed that preparations for restarting the plant are nearing completion, with the battery set to begin warming up this June.

“We made the decision to prioritise this critical project as part of our turnaround strategy. The coke oven battery is ready for the next phase, and we’ve invested over US$8 million into ensuring it is operational,” Gambiza said.

The project has been welcomed by stakeholders, including Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo, who commended the administration-led recovery plan.

“We appreciate the government’s intervention in placing HCCL under administration. The positive results are clear—from improved economic performance to better welfare for workers. The government is also receiving dividends, which shows things are moving in the right direction,” Moyo said.

The resurgence comes at a time when demand for coking coal is growing both locally and globally, giving HCCL an opportunity to reclaim its strategic role in powering industry and energy in Zimbabwe.

The coke oven battery is a critical component of HCCL’s infrastructure. Its revival not only boosts in-house production but also revitalises downstream industries that depend heavily on coke supplies from Hwange.

With momentum building and renewed investment flowing in, HCCL’s long-term turnaround appears to be gaining traction, restoring confidence in one of Zimbabwe’s oldest mining companies.