Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Advocate Itayi Ndudzo
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, has hailed Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) for setting a good standard in responsible mining, through value addition, infrastructure development and community empowerment.
The mine (PLZ) is a sister company to Arcadia Technology Zimbabwe (ATZ) under Huayou Cobalt, with both operating in Goromonzi District, Mashonaland East Province.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ATZ mine tour, Minister Ndudzo said PLZ’s investment was a practical demonstration of Government’s policy of ensuring Zimbabwe benefits more from its mineral resources.
“What we are witnessing here at PLZ in Mashonaland East Province is the manifestation of the policy direction given by His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa that Zimbabwe must stop exporting raw minerals and instead invest in processing plants that maximise the value of what we export,” he said.
Minister Ndudzo said the project was proof that investment should also bring meaningful benefits to surrounding communities.
“There must be tangible benefits that accrue to the communities where mining is taking place.
“PLZ has demonstrated this through its investments in infrastructure, education and community development.”
He commended the company for upgrading the road linking the plant from the Harare-Mutare Highway, saying the development has improved access to the area and benefit local communities.
“They have already rehabilitated part of the 22-kilometre road from the highway to the plant and have committed to completing the remaining section.
“This is the kind of investment that leaves a lasting impact on communities,” said Minister Ndudzo.
The Minister also applauded PLZ for its corporate social responsibility initiatives, which include support for schools and surrounding communities.
“They have invested no less than US$3 million in corporate social responsibility programmes, supporting local schools and communities while also creating employment opportunities,” he said.
On the creation of about 4 000 jobs, 2 000 being direct and another 2 000 through contractors, Minister Ndudzo said this significantly contributes to livelihoods in the province.
He added that PLZ was also making a significant contribution to the country’s economy through taxes and other revenues that support national development.
“In summary, what we are seeing here is the best example of the kind of investment we want. Thanks to the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, we are now witnessing the results. This is not only the first project of its kind in Mashonaland East or Zimbabwe, but the first of its kind in Africa,” he added.
