Africazine:
Mutapa Gold is investing significantly in the Jena Mine, aiming to boost gold production and enhance operations.
The company has allocated US million from a US5 million loan for the mine’s Phase One expansion. This investment is expected to increase monthly gold production from 44 kilograms to 100 kilograms by 2029, with current production projected at 42–43 kilograms for April.
Jena Mine’s Major Expansion Plans Unveiled
Mutapa Gold Resources CEO Patrick Maseva-Shayawabaya highlighted the Jena Mine as a key asset, stating it has “arguably one of the best resources in the country.” The Phase One expansion is part of a larger US2 million program across the company’s portfolio. The mine’s production has rebounded significantly, rising from 17 kilograms in January to the current levels.
General Manager Alfred Mandowe outlined immediate investment priorities, including exploration and plant rehabilitation. The current plant is described as dilapidated and insufficient for the desired production capacity.
Zimbabwe: Key figures on gold production
- US million allocated for Jena Mine expansion
- Current production: 44 kilograms per month
- Projected production by 2029: 100 kilograms per month
- Production in April: 42–43 kilograms
- Employment: Approximately 700 workers, expected to rise to 1,000
Investment Strategy and Future Goals
The expansion is structured in phases, starting with a stabilization phase requiring under US million. An interim upgrade will cost around US million, aiming to increase production to 60–80 kilograms per month. A full-scale expansion is projected to exceed US0 million, with the potential to push output past 200 kilograms monthly.
Management believes that with adequate investment, Jena Mine could become one of Zimbabwe’s largest mines, leveraging its high-grade ore and significant untapped potential.
Next Steps for Jena Mine Expansion
- Complete exploration by the end of the year
- Upgrade the plant to enhance production capacity
- Continue partnership with artisanal miners
Mutapa Gold’s investment in Jena Mine signals a strong commitment to boosting Zimbabwe’s gold production.
