According to zbcnews, a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s mining sector is unfolding in the Midlands Province, where the Zvishavane lithium processing plant—developed by Zheli Mining Investments—is entering its final stage of completion. Valued at US$1.5 million, the facility is poised to begin operations next month and will have the capacity to process 500 tonnes of lithium ore per day.
The plant has already undergone successful dry testing following the installation phase. According to ZHELI Mining Investments General Manager, Kudakwashe Zimhondi, the team is optimistic about the plant’s performance and its ability to contribute to Zimbabwe’s lithium supply chain.
“We have since completed the installation phase and have done a dry run to see if it is functioning well and we are so far excited. We are thrilled to have had an opportunity to showcase our operations. ,” said Mr. Zimhondi.
Lithium: A Strategic Resource for Vision 2030
Speaking at a recent site visit, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube, emphasized the lithium industry’s role in Zimbabwe’s economic development and the national Vision 2030 initiative.
“We gather here not only to witness the remarkable advancement in lithium mining but also to reflect on the broader potential of our province’s rich mineral endowments, which include gold in different districts. These resources are pivotal to our national social economic development and are integral to the aspirations outlined in our national Vision 2030,” said Honourable Ncube.
Zimbabwe, home to some of the world’s most promising lithium reserves, sees lithium as a key mineral for powering the transition to electric vehicles and green technologies globally.
Local Economic Impact and Employment
Once fully operational, the Zvishavane lithium facility is expected to:
- Create significant employment opportunities for the local community.
- Strengthen local supply chains by sourcing auxiliary services and supplies domestically.
The facility will not only drive foreign direct investment into the region but also position Zimbabwe as a critical player in the global battery materials market.
Strategic Significance of Zimbabwe’s Lithium Ambitions
The Zvishavane project marks a pivotal step in Zimbabwe’s strategic shift toward value addition in its mining sector. By processing lithium domestically, the country is moving away from exporting raw materials and toward establishing a full-scale beneficiation and battery supply chain—a cornerstone of long-term industrial growth.
This development also supports Zimbabwe’s broader commitment to sustainable economic growth and green energy supply chains, aligning with global decarbonization efforts and regional economic empowerment.
Conclusion
As Zheli Mining Investments prepares to bring the Zvishavane lithium processing plant online, Zimbabwe is demonstrating its readiness to become a leader in Africa’s clean energy mineral supply chain. With strong government backing, a growing investor base, and rising global demand for lithium, this project serves as both a national achievement and a global signal of Africa’s growing influence in the energy transition era.
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