Patience Muchemwa-ZimNow Reporter
Sinomine’s Bikita Minerals is ramping up investment in local beneficiation with a US$500 million lithium sulphate plant and a US$35 million pollucite flotation plant, moves praised by government for driving industrial growth and local empowerment.
Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, toured the site this week alongside the Joint Operation Committee, traditional leaders, and government officials.
“Let’s continue to engage – we are happy with the development you have made. Thank you for the future project, the lithium sulphate plant valued at US$500 million and US$35 million for the pollucite plant,” said Chadzamira.
He applauded the partnership between the mine and local leadership, particularly around employment of locals. The mine directly employs 1,460 people and supports over 1,000 through contractors.
“Masvingo’s economic target is US$8 billion, and mining is expected to contribute more than any other sector. The province has over 16 minerals including lithium, gold, chrome, asbestos, and diamonds,” Chadzamira added.
“Vision 2030 is not just rhetoric—it’s a call to action. We must be productive and achieve our targets.”
Bikita Minerals Chief Engineer, Mr Zhou Suyang, welcomed the visit:
“We appreciate the proactive support in resolving regulatory challenges. Today’s engagement strengthens our collaboration with government, ensuring every step from extraction to export meets high standards of accountability and efficiency.”
During the tour, stakeholders visited the pollucite plant, currently in commissioning, the company clinic, and New Masarasara Village, built to house workers.
Amanda Makausi, Vice-General Manager of Sinomine Bikita Mineral noted that the pollucite plant enables recovery of cesium from petalite tailings.
“This investment enhances sustainability while supporting global tech supply chains. Cesium is used in electronics, medical devices, and aerospace—this is beneficiation in action.”
The twin investments signal Zimbabwe’s growing role in green energy minerals and value-added exports.
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