The mining sector, Zimbabwe biggest foreign currency earner and contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) has been challenged to redouble efforts to facilitate economic recovery.
Speaking during a televised 40th independence anniversary address to the nation Saturday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa challenged players in the mining sector to work exceptionally hard to revive the troubled economy.
“The mining sector must redouble its efforts to facilitate the resuscitation of our economy,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Projects already underway across different minerals, coupled with the ongoing reforms give hope that the target of a 12billion dollar mining sector by 2023, is achievable.”
The mining sector, like any other has been affected by the 21-day national lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19, which came into effect on March 30 and expires on April 19 unless extended.
President Mnangagwa said it was also encouraging that in the energy sector, water inflows into Kariba Dam, which is a key source of our hydro-power, was improving.
Constant power supply enables mining efficiency.
“It is integral that the energy mix continues to improve with regards to both the thermal generation capacity as well as renewable energy sources,” he said.
“I, thus, urge all stakeholders to be robust, flexible and responsive and to keep the bigger national interest in perspective. Silo mentalities have no place in the course we are taking.”
He explained that two Units, 7 and 8 at Hwange Power Station under construction were expected to be commissioned during the second quarter of next year.
“These will bring in an additional 600MW to the National Grid,” he elaborated.
“As such, the production of all the supporting through-put to facilitate the smooth increment of our energy supply must begin now. A number of our key capital projects, principally infrastructure, must be completed as soon as we are able.”
