The National University of Science and Technology (Nust) is gearing up to make waves in Zimbabwe’s mining sector through a pioneering partnership with Captive Sells, a prominent supplier of mining equipment based in Bulawayo. The collaboration will culminate in the establishment of a cutting-edge mining and minerals laboratory within the recently inaugurated Professor Phinias Makhurane Technovation Centre. This initiative aims to tackle a critical bottleneck in the industry: the expensive and time-consuming process of exporting mineral samples for analysis.
Currently, miners face the daunting task of sending their samples abroad, which not only delays results but also adds unnecessary costs that can stifle growth and innovation. Nust’s new laboratory will provide on-site testing capabilities, allowing for quicker research and improved characterization of mineral deposits. This shift is poised to enhance the overall competitiveness of Zimbabwe’s mining industry, which is already rich in resources but often struggles with value addition.
Brian Samuriwo, the driving force behind Captive Sells, has been instrumental in introducing advanced technology to the mining sector. He recognizes the potential of this partnership to transform the landscape of mineral analysis in Zimbabwe. “In the mining sector, we face significant challenges in the characterization of mineral resources,” he said, emphasizing the importance of local testing facilities. The laboratory will not only serve large-scale mining companies but will also extend its benefits to artisanal miners, ensuring that everyone in the sector can access essential testing and guidance.
Professor William Goriwondo, Nust’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Innovation and Business Development, highlighted the timing of this collaboration as particularly fortuitous. “This partnership has come at an opportune time, as we recently launched the Professor Phinias Makhurane Technovation Centre, which is intended to advance the principles of Education 5.0,” he stated. The goal is to leverage Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth more effectively, reducing the reliance on exports without value addition. The laboratory will facilitate the testing and characterization of minerals, providing critical policy advice on beneficiation and addressing potential mineral leakages.
The laboratory will kick off operations with the introduction of an AA machine, which will serve as the foundation for future expansions. Nust is already in discussions with various institutions, including the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, to explore the lithium value chain and identify opportunities for exploration. This proactive approach aligns with the broader Vision 2030 initiative aimed at economic development and modernization.
Moreover, the partnership promises to enrich students’ educational experiences. As Professor Goriwondo noted, students will gain hands-on access to the laboratory, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. This exposure is invaluable in preparing the next generation of mining professionals.
Samuriwo also emphasized the significance of the drill rig acquired through collaboration with the Junior Chamber of Mines, which can conduct geological surveys up to a kilometer deep. This equipment will be pivotal in enhancing the classification of mineral samples, ultimately streamlining operations for miners who have long faced inefficiencies in the testing process.
This partnership between Nust and Captive Sells is not just a local endeavor; it echoes President Mnangagwa’s vision for economic development, where universities play a crucial role in driving innovation and industrialization. By collaborating with the private sector, Nust is poised to unlock funding opportunities and foster a more dynamic mining industry that benefits all stakeholders involved. The future looks bright for Zimbabwe’s mining sector, and this partnership might just be the catalyst needed to propel it to new heights.
