Govt commissions US$300 000 gold milling centre in Shurugwi

By Itai Mazire

Government has commissioned a US$300 000 gold milling and processing centre in Shurugwi District as part of efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining operations across the gold rich province.

The facility was funded by Cheng-Xi Chengetai Investments and officially opened by Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube .

It is expected to provide affordable and efficient gold processing services to more than 5 000 small-scale miners in the area.

Speaking during the commissioning, Minister Ncube said the investment was a key milestone in promoting responsible mining and improving livelihoods in the district.

“This centre will ensure accessible and safe gold processing for our artisanal miners, while minimising environmental and health risks. It will also boost gold production and create jobs,” Ncube said.

The plant comprises three round mills, a jaw crusher, three hammer mills, water reservoirs, an administration block and supporting infrastructure.

Ncube commended Cheng-Xi Investments for its contribution to Zimbabwe’s mining growth saying the initiative reflected the strength of bilateral cooperation between Zimbabwe and China.

He said government remained committed to empowering small-scale miners, particularly youth and women under the devolution and Vision 2030 frameworks.

According to official figures, small-scale miners delivered 24.5 tonnes of gold to Fidelity Gold Refinery in the first nine months of 2025 out of the 33 tonnes recorded nationally.

Minister Ncube also urged other corporates to emulate the company’s corporate social investment initiatives and warned individuals involved in drug peddling that the law would take its course regardless of social standing.

The Shurugwi gold centre is expected to enhance production efficiency, promote formalisation of artisanal operations and support government’s push towards a US$12 billion mining industry by 2030.