Staff Reporter
MARONDERA– One of the leading mining companies in the country, Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) was last week applauded for its contribution and commitment in the sector.
The company’s commitment to infrastructural development has seen the upgrading of Goromonzi-Kubatsirana road which links PLZ’s and the Harare-Mutare highway. Apart from that, the mining company last year funded the rehabilitation of a 22 km stretch of the road.
Currently, a 16 km stretch of the same road is being upgraded a target has been set for the completion of the upgrading process has been set for the first quarter of next year.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Aplonia Munzverengwi toured the road works and was satisfied with the progress being made.
She said the works by PLZ were a result of the government’s re-engagement policy and its Zimbabwe is Open for Business mantra adding that the province had large lithium deposits which the company had invested in. The Minister also praised the company for adding value to the minerals.
“We are witnessing PLZ upgrading the road from Harare-Mutare highway to their site. Part of this road was gravel and the company has assured us that it will be tarred. This is a busy road which is used by at least 100 heavy trucks daily. The good thing is the fact that it does not serve PLZ alone, but farmers and other residents in this community. This corporate-social responsibility should be commended.”
She appealed to other companies in the province to emulate PLZ’s commitment and give back to communities from which they carry out their business.
“Here in Mashonaland East, we have many companies that are doing well in terms of business and they must put their effort to emulate what PLZ has been doing as part of nation building,” Dr Munzverengwi said.
Henry Zhu, the general manager of PLZ said the newly constructed 8km tarred road, which stretches from Majuru Growth Point to ARDA Farm, is designed to improve transportation links, facilitate trade as well as boost economic development in Mashonaland East province.
This strategic investment, Zhu said, underscores the company’s dedication to contribute to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic prosperity.
He said: “This 8km tarred road with durable asphalt surfacing, has enhanced safety features that include road signage and an improved drainage system to mitigate risks that associated with floods. The road also increases accessibility for local residents, the businesses community and farmers. In a nutshell, this project demonstrates our dedication to investing in critical infrastructure, driving growth and enhancing the quality of people’s lives in Goromonzi district.
As PLZ, we are we take pride in contributing to the development of Mashonaland East province and we will always appreciate the support that the Government has been giving us.”
The road project is expected to reduce travel times and increase connectivity, stimulate local economic growth through improved access to markets, enhance safety and reduce accidents, as well as create economic opportunities for local residents.
Despite the current challenges in the global lithium market, characterised by declining prices, PLZ remains committed to development.
“We are confident in the long-term potential of the lithium mineral and its essential role in the transition to a future sustainable energy. We recognise the current market volatility, and as an entity we have not been spared. However, our focus remains on building a sustainable and resilient business. Our focus is on delivering value to our stakeholders and contribute Zimbabwe’s economic growth,” Zhu added.
As a mitigatory strategy to the current challenges that are being faced in the mining sector and as a response to the Government’s call for minerals’ value addition, PLZ has set its sight on establishing a lithium sulphate plant in the province. This will see the conversion of lithium concentrates to lithium sulphate
New Ziana
