Zimbabwe Launches "Basic Knowledge of Chrome Washing Management" Training Program for Young Miners

August 21, 2025 News:

According to The Herald, the Zimbabwe Youth Miners Foundation (YMF) in collaboration with Ngayin Investments Consultants, is training young miners through a program called "Basics of Chrome Washing Management" to equip them with essential skills in chrome processing.

Zimbabwe boasts the world's second-largest chrome ore deposits, estimated to account for 12% of global chrome ore resources, second only to South Africa which holds about 72%. To promote local beneficiation, the government has implemented a ban on the export of raw ore and introduced a key policy directive linking the allocation of over 100 hectares of chrome mining rights to the expansion or establishment of ferrochrome furnace capacity. As the government strengthens the enforcement of the "use it or lose it" principle, these measures form part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing domestic value addition in the chrome industry.

In an interview, YMF Chairman Mr. Talent Chitepo said that the training program aims to provide young miners with critical skills needed in the chrome sector and help them formalize their businesses. "Our goal is to bridge the gap; this training program is designed to empower the youth as we transform Zimbabwe's chrome industry." Recently, in Mvurwi, 47 young and ambitious miners graduated from the basics of chrome washing management course. "We have also launched the program in Mutorashanga, where 50 aspiring miners and students were empowered. We look forward to expanding this initiative to all mining provinces across the country."

Chitepo emphasized that the program is not a typical classroom course but a tailored curriculum designed to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern, responsible mining methods. Participants gained hands-on experience - from understanding the properties of chrome ore to mastering the process flow and operating wash plant equipment. "This initiative directly supports national goals of youth empowerment and economic value addition. There is an urgent need for fair and equal access to mining rights, and organizations like ours are ensuring that the youth are not only involved but lead with knowledge and responsibility."

The founder and director of Ngayin Investments Consultants, Engineer Mufudzi Mutambisi, stated that the program focuses on separating chrome ore from scrap, optimizing plant efficiency, and adhering to environmental regulations. He noted that key components include gravity separation, equipment selection, waste management, and cost analysis.

Miners4ED Mashonaland Central Chairman Mr. Lawrence Mushura pledged unwavering support for young miners and called for the expansion of the training program to include other minerals beyond chrome. These initiatives are crucial for the development of the mining sector, aligning with President Mnangagwa's 2030 vision of achieving a prosperous upper-middle-income economy.

The plan also includes a field trip, allowing participants to observe real-time chrome washing operations and apply theoretical knowledge to the real world.

It is organized in collaboration with the JCI Khumalo Chapter and supported by the Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC).

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