By Godfrey Gusha
HWANGE — Zimbabwe’s path toward energy security and industrial revival is gathering pace, with Hwange Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) emerging as a cornerstone of the country’s modernisation and economic transformation agenda under Vision 2030.
During a media tour on Friday, led by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, HCCL administrator Mr. Munashe Mashava revealed that over US$3.5 million has been invested in new equipment to boost production capacity.
“The recovery of the coke oven battery is now at 95 percent completion. Preheating at 1,200 degrees Celsius will begin on August 15, a crucial step for full operation. We are excited to be adding value not only through coal production but also by processing by-products such as tar, bitumen, gas, and carbon black,” said Mr. Mashava.
Dr. Muswere hailed the company’s recapitalisation as a success story of public-private partnerships driving Zimbabwe’s reconstruction agenda.
“Coal production has risen from 500,000 metric tonnes in 2017 to over 7 million tonnes annually. This output fuels thermal power generation, steel production, agriculture, and other industries, making Hwange a catalyst for Vision 2030,” he said.
According to the minister, 50 percent of Hwange’s coal output now powers thermal stations, 26 percent goes to foundry and metallurgical use, while 25 percent supports industrial and agricultural sectors. The recapitalisation has also seen the procurement of vehicles to expand coal delivery capacity, while thousands of jobs have been created both upstream and downstream.
Beyond energy, HCCL is also prioritising community welfare. The company has invested in healthcare infrastructure, including four dialysis machines and the expansion of medical facilities to provide better services for its workforce and surrounding communities.
