Bikita Minerals powers up production and communiti...

Bikita Minerals powers up production and communities with new transmission line

Nyashadzashe Ndoro

Bikita Minerals, a lithium mining company in Zimbabwe, has unveiled a US$22 million power transmission project that will bring significant benefits to both the company and surrounding communities.

The 132kV line stretches from Tugwi to Bikita and is expected to boost lithium production while also providing much-needed electricity to local residents.

The project was lauded by Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Ezra Chadzamira, who sees it as a prime example of private sector investment driving progress towards Vision 2030, Zimbabwe’s economic development blueprint. He highlighted the National Development Strategy’s emphasis on private companies taking the lead in addressing the country’s infrastructure needs.

“This project isn’t just about Bikita Minerals,” Minister Chadzamira explained. “In addition to the 132kV line for their operations, it provides the same voltage transmission for Masvingo city, tackling our infrastructure deficit through private sector investment as envisioned in the National Development Strategy.”

For Bikita Minerals, the Tugwi-Bikita powerline is a strategic move towards ensuring reliable and cost-effective power. Previously reliant on diesel generators, the company will now benefit from the national grid’s pricing structure, according to mine manager, David Mwanza.

“This development significantly reduces our dependence on diesel,” said Mwanza. “By connecting to the national grid, we gain a pricing advantage that will benefit our operations.”

The project extends its positive impact beyond the mine itself. The construction phase provided employment opportunities for locals, and the completed line brings the promise of powering schools, clinics, and small businesses in the Bikita community.

Local leader, Chief Marozva expressed his community’s appreciation for the project. “This line is a game-changer,” he said. “Our schools, clinics, and businesses will finally have access to reliable electricity. The employment opportunities during construction were also a welcome development for our young people.”

Bikita West legislator, Nhatiso Makusha echoed Chief Marozva’s sentiment, highlighting the particular benefit for small businesses. "”Reliable electricity is crucial for their growth and success,” he said.

With the completion of the power transmission project, Bikita Minerals is well-positioned to meet the growing power demands of its lithium processing plants, while the surrounding communities can look forward to a brighter future fuelled by dependable electricity supplies.