Zimbabwe’s Mining Future Takes Center Stage in Victoria Falls

The majestic Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls has become the heartbeat of Zimbabwe’s economic discourse as it plays host to the Annual Mining Conference, currently underway under the transformative theme: “Unlocking Growth Potential for the Zimbabwe Mining Industry.”

Bringing together hundreds of delegates from across the mining value chain — including investors, policymakers, miners, financiers, and international development partners — the conference is widely seen as a pivotal moment in charting a sustainable and inclusive path for Zimbabwe’s mineral sector.

Delivering his opening remarks, President of The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, Mr. Thomas Gono, set a bold tone for the gathering, calling for strategic focus, sectoral reforms, and innovation to accelerate mining-led growth. “Zimbabwe stands on the cusp of a mining renaissance,” Mr. Gono declared. “We possess some of the world’s most valuable mineral resources — but unlocking their true potential requires more than ambition. It calls for coordinated policy, investor confidence, community empowerment, and sustainable mining practices.”

Mr. Gono acknowledged the mining sector’s resilience amid global economic headwinds and praised the government’s commitment to engaging with industry players. However, he was clear that urgent work remains to optimize the sector’s contribution to GDP, expand value addition and beneficiation, and strengthen infrastructure, from energy to transport. “This conference is more than a networking event,” he added. “It is a platform to craft bold solutions. We must diversify our mineral portfolio, formalize artisanal and small-scale mining, and unlock the full potential of critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements.”

Throughout the conference, breakout sessions are tackling issues such as mining sector financing, green energy adoption, women in mining, and technology-driven efficiency. Participants from regional mining chambers and global development institutions are also sharing case studies on how countries across Africa are leveraging minerals for structural transformation.

The conference continues through the week with keynote addresses, ministerial panels, and exhibitions by top industry players. Victoria Falls, already a global tourism gem, now finds itself at the epicenter of Zimbabwe’s economic ambitions.

By Witness A Phiri