Hwange Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) has teamed up with Chinese firm Zhong Xia in a joint venture to revive its 3 North Mine with a US$60 million investment.
The project aims to increase monthly coal production from 50,000 to over 200,000 tonnes by next year.
The mine, which had been operating at reduced capacity, has seen major upgrades, including modern equipment, new infrastructure, and the creation of more than 400 local jobs, alongside several positions for Chinese workers.
Once production ramps up, 3 North Mine is set to become one of Zimbabwe’s top coal producers, serving both domestic and export markets.
Mining consultant Ackim Mutiti recently toured the mine and shared updates on the progress of the partnership. Said Mutiti:
“Where we are now, we have got three tunnels going down at an inclination of 12 degrees, intersecting coal at a length of about one kilometre.
“At that point, the coal lies approximately 240 metres below the surface. To date, we have mined almost two kilometres from the surface.
“Currently, we are producing about 50 000 tonnes a month, but by this time next year, we will be producing over 200 000 tonnes a month, thanks to the commissioning of state-of-the-art long wire equipment.”
Mutiti said the mine now operates with continuous miners and road headers, removing the need for explosives and creating a safer work environment. He said:
“We don’t use any explosives, so this is a very safe method of mining. Over US$60 million has been invested in road headers and continuous miners, and we will also be introducing long-haul mining, which involves shearers and armoured face conveyors.”
Mutiti added that the mine currently employs approximately 400 local workers alongside around 100 Chinese staff.
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