Acting President Constantino Chiwenga has cautioned miners against unethical practices, reiterating the government’s resolve to ensure that Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth benefits all citizens. He emphasised that the nation remains “open for business, not for extraction.”
Speaking during the official opening of the 28th Mine Entra Conference in Bulawayo on Thursday, Chiwenga underscored the need to harness Zimbabwe’s natural resources for inclusive empowerment and long-term development.
“Our mineral wealth should not be a source of personal enrichment,” he said. “It must serve the collective good of all Zimbabweans through responsible partnerships that add value to our resources.”
Chiwenga reiterated that while Zimbabwe welcomes foreign investment, it will only do so under fair and mutually beneficial terms. “To foreign investors — Zimbabwe is open for business, not for extraction,” he said.
He explained that the government is focused on attracting investors committed to value addition, beneficiation, and technological innovation. Mine Entra, he added, provides a key platform for dialogue on the future of the mining industry — a vital sector contributing about 14.5% of Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and supporting thousands of livelihoods.
This year’s conference theme, *“Beyond Extraction: Sustaining the Future of Mining,”* was described by Chiwenga as both timely and visionary. He urged a transition from raw mineral exports to a value-driven approach that promotes job creation and sustainable economic growth.
“It’s important that every gram of mineral extracted contributes to employment creation for our people,” he said, calling for a mining industry rooted in sustainability and inclusivity.
Chiwenga also reminded miners of their duty to act responsibly. “You are the custodians of our mineral wealth. Manage it with integrity — these resources belong to the nation, not to individuals,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming government’s vision to ensure that both current and future generations benefit from Zimbabwe’s natural endowments.
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