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Dosman Mangisi Mining Correspondent
MUROWA Diamonds says it will more than double kimberlite diamond production to one million carats per annum following the commissioning of new equipment. It is currently producing 400 000 carats The company, which is managed by Zimbabwe Stock Exchange-listed RioZim recently commissioned equipment worth $6 million, being the first phase of the planned $60 million recapitalisation of the mine in the next four years.

Murowa, located in the southern parts of Zimbabwe, is the country’s sole kimberlite diamond miner. “We are going to witness an increase in production to more than one million carats . . . (and) additional jobs have already been created,” communication and external relations manager Mr Lovemore Chimuka said.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Murowa Diamond board chairman Mr Lovemore Chihota said the new investment was meant to strengthen the company’s long term operations and cut down of operational costs in light of low commodity prices.

“As part of our long term investment plan, this acquisition of latest equipment will go a long way in ensuring that we are able to continue mining sustainably.

“In the past all equipment was owned and operated by mining contractors under a load and haul arrangement,” he said. The machinery consists of excavators, dump trucks, bulldozers and graders.”