Minister Ndhlovu Urges Mining Companies to Put Local Suppliers First

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local content and expanding industrial linkages within Zimbabwe’s mining sector to ensure greater value addition and economic transformation.

Speaking at the Suppliers, Energy and Infrastructure Symposium during the first day of the 29th Mine Entra Conference and Exhibition, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu, called for stronger collaboration between the mining and manufacturing sectors.

Delivering a presentation under the theme, “Enhancing Local Content and Linkages in the Mining Value Chain,” Hon. Ndhlovu said Mine Entra 2026 builds on the momentum generated by the recently held Zimbabwe Industrialisation Conference and Expo (ZICE) 2026.

“The two platforms reaffirm Government’s commitment to strengthening mining-industry linkages, expanding local content and unlocking greater value from the country’s mineral resources.

Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy 2 (ZNIDP 2: 2026–2030) is Government’s blueprint to deepen value addition and beneficiation, drive technological upgrading and industrial modernisation, strengthen industrial linkages, and expand Zimbabwe’s participation in regional and global value chains,” he said.

Hon. Ndhlovu also highlighted the role of Community Economic Empowerment Trusts (CEETs) in ensuring that mining communities benefit directly from mineral resources while promoting inclusive economic growth.

“The Local Content Strategy (2026–2035), its implementation will be coordinated through a Local Content Steering Committee, supported by a Digital Local Content Platform to register suppliers, monitor compliance and facilitate buyer-supplier matching,” said Hon. Ndhlovu.

The Minister urged mining companies to prioritise locally manufactured products, including explosives, wires, drill bits and protective clothing, to strengthen domestic industries and reduce reliance on imports.

He also called for the operationalisation of the National Industry and Mining Compact to formalise partnerships between the mining and manufacturing sectors.

“The Strategy seeks to reverse the trend of imported goods filling opportunities in mining, agriculture, construction and procurement, ensuring Zimbabwe’s industries capture greater value, create jobs and drive sustainable industrial transformation,” Hon. Ndhlovu added.