Shurugwi District Marks a New Era for Small-Scale Miners

In a momentous event for the mining community, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable O. Ncube (MP), officially commissioned the Shurugwi Community Empowerment Trust Gold Milling and Processing Centre on October 14, 2025. This USD 300,000 facility, funded by Cheng-Xi Chengetai Investments, aims to empower 5,000 beneficiaries under the Shurugwi District Small Scale Miners.

The new milling centre is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including three round mills, a jaw crusher, three hammer mills, water reservoirs, and essential administrative facilities. Ncube described the centre as a "people-centric initiative" that signifies a significant milestone in community empowerment and local economic development.

“This transformative project underscores our commitment to supporting small-scale miners in the Midlands Province, which contributes 36% to the provincial GDP, with gold being a key mineral,” he remarked.

The Shurugwi Community Empowerment Trust Gold Milling and Processing Centre is part of Cheng-Xi's broader Corporate Social Investment plan. Ncube commended the company for its responsible mining practices and its efforts to formalize the informal sector, allowing youths and local communities to actively participate in the mining industry.

Notably, small-scale miners delivered 24.5 tonnes of gold to Fidelity Gold Refinery in the first nine months of 2025, further emphasizing the need for such facilities to enhance local processing capabilities.

Addressing Challenges and Opportunities
In his address, Ncube highlighted the challenges faced by small-scale miners, including the high costs of processing and the long distances they must travel to access milling services. The new centre will provide affordable and efficient milling services, promoting safer mining practices while minimizing environmental harm.

Cheng-Xi Investments has also been proactive in acquiring 100-hectare claims and organizing small-scale miners into structured groups, ensuring inclusivity and community leadership in local economic empowerment efforts.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable O. Ncube (MP)

The Minister elaborated on the government's vision for rural industrialization and local resource utilization, aligning with the Devolution and Decentralization agenda. He announced ongoing reviews of mining regulations to improve the sector's sustainability and address conflicts between farmers and miners.

The government has made significant strides in various signature projects, including the Hwange Power Generation Units, the Dinson Iron and Steel Manufacturing Plant, and modernization of key infrastructure, all aimed at stimulating economic growth.

Ncube also addressed the pressing issue of drug and substance abuse within mining communities, emphasizing the need for empowerment and protection. He commended the First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, for her efforts in combating this scourge through awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs.

As the event concluded, Minister Ncube called on other corporates to emulate Cheng-Xi Investments' commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. He reaffirmed the government's dedication to achieving a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society by 2030, urging all stakeholders to join the Second Republic's mission.

With the commissioning of the Shurugwi Community Empowerment Trust Gold Milling and Processing Centre, small-scale miners in Shurugwi District are poised for a brighter future, equipped to contribute meaningfully to the economy.