At the ongoing fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, China, Zimbabwe is boldly positioning itself as a premier destination for mineral investment, spotlighting its immense natural resources and inviting Chinese investors to tap into its lucrative mining sector.
With over 60 commercially exploitable minerals, including globally sought-after resources like gold, platinum, diamonds, and lithium, Zimbabwe aims to transform its mining industry into a $40 billion economic powerhouse. The country’s abundant mineral wealth offers significant opportunities for partnerships, technology transfer, and industrial growth.
Henrietta Rushwaya, President of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation, highlighted the country’s rich resource base: “Zimbabwe stands as one of the most mineral-rich countries in Africa, with over 60 commercially exploitable mineral resources.” She underscored the government’s commitment to working closely with Chinese firms to unlock this potential and accelerate Zimbabwe’s industrialization agenda.
One sector rapidly gaining traction is lithium mining, a critical mineral for the global electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing industries. Zimbabwe currently accounts for roughly 30 percent of Africa’s lithium production, with Chinese-owned ventures like Arcadia Lithium Mine and Bikita Minerals leading the way. These companies have established a strong foothold in the country’s lithium landscape, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s status as a key player in the clean energy supply chain.
Rushwaya also emphasized the strategic potential for collaborations in the electric vehicle sector, noting, “Zimbabwe can become a launchpad for clean mobility solutions for the continent.” This vision aligns with growing global demand for sustainable transport and renewable energy technologies.
Beyond lithium, Zimbabwe is actively courting Chinese energy companies to explore public-private partnerships in solar, hydro, and coal-to-power projects. These initiatives aim to stabilize the mining sector’s historically erratic electricity supply and foster sustainable industrial expansion. Reliable energy infrastructure is critical for mining operations and overall economic development.
Zimbabwe’s investor-friendly environment is further enhanced by the One-Stop Investment Services Centre, operated by the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA). This centre simplifies administrative procedures and eases market entry for foreign investors, making Zimbabwe an increasingly attractive investment destination.
As Zimbabwe deepens economic ties with China, the nation’s vast mineral resources combined with supportive policies offer compelling opportunities for investors seeking to expand their footprint across Africa’s resource-rich landscape.
The Changsha Expo serves as a pivotal platform for Zimbabwe to showcase its mining potential and signal its readiness to partner with China in unlocking Africa’s mineral wealth for mutual growth and sustainable development.
