https://hdl.handle.net/10646/3825 2026-04-10T00:31:57Z https://hdl.handle.net/10646/3833 Formalization of a roadmap to maximize the contribution of artisanal and small-scale mining in Zimbabwe Dzimunya, Nevaid; Mapamba, L.; Dembetembe, Gift G.; Dzwiti, K.; Mukono, Tichaona In Zimbabwe, artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is predominantly in gold mining and has contributed significantly towards mineral output and a source of livelihood for many communities. It is crucial for countries having some of its citizens relying on ASM, to formally recognize this sector and work towards making ASM sustainable. In Zimbabwe, several ideas for formalizing ASM have been implemented but the assumed benefits have not yet been fully realised. This paper argues that for formalization to make an impact, an integrated approach founded on understanding stakeholder needs, the demographics of the ASM, provision of appropriate training and a structured coordination of the sector would increase the sustainability of formalization programmes. These programmes would have to be supported by strong political will and robust, capacitated implementing institutions. Built on these arguments, a formalization roadmap is proposed to ensure the ASM sector brings its anticipated benefits to all stakeholders. Conference paper 2018-09-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10646/3832 Optimising the extractive capacity of the mining loading and haulage fleet at Nchanga Open Pit Mine, Zambia Dembetembe, Gift G.; Mutambo, Victor Nchanga Open Pit (NOP), a business unit under Konkola Copper Mines plc (KCM), has been undertaking processing plant improvement projects, namely elevated temperature leaching, heap leaching, and cobalt/copper separation, in order to scale up its operations. These improvements have extended the life of mine (LoM) by 4 years. Consequently, all upstream components of the value chain had to be harmonized with these improvements in order to curb loss of value. This study was undertaken in order to optimize the fleet in terms of size and remaining life. In order to achieve this aim, production planning, fleet optimization, and fleet management were reviewed and analysed based on generic formulae, match factor theory, and queuing theory, while fleet simulation was done using Talpac software. Results of the study indicate that there is need for NOP to invest in machinery by either re-capitalizing the current fleet or resorting to a more cost-effective haulage system. Conference paper 2018-03-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10646/3831 Growth enabling policy formulating strategies for the Zimbabwean Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining Sector Dembetembe, Gift G.; Mukono, Tichaona; Mapamba, L.; Dzimunya, Nevaid Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Zimbabwe can significantly contribute to the economy and improve livelihoods but an enabling policy environment is lacking to achieve this vision. The government of Zimbabwe (GOZ) regulates ASGM on the basis ofsocio-environmental protection; legal compliance and economic contribution. Past experiences show growth stifling inadequacies in the policy framework arising from conflicts in providing adequate socio-environmental protection and maximising economic contribution. In this study,we examinedthe GOZ‘s policy framework and evaluatedits impact onASGM growth and economic contribution. A review of pastgovernment positions in the articulation and administration of mining license fees, taxes and royalties, environmental laws, mineral pricing and marketing conditions and corresponding reactions from the sector was done. Findings showed that most policy interventions retardedgrowth of the sector and limitedits fiscal contribution. Following these findings, strategies that can be fused into the policy framework were recommended. Conference paper 2018-01-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10646/3829 Strategies for sustainable gold processing in the artisanal and small-scale mining sector in Zimbabwe Mukono, T.; Dembetembe, G.; Mapamba, L.; Dzimunya, N.; Mabikire, T. The artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector is considered one of the most important sources of income for both rural and urban communities in Zimbabwe, particularly with diminished access to alternative opportunities. However, gold processing in the ASGM sector is characterised by a lack of capital and limited use of appropriate technology in the processing of gold ores. This paper examines gold processing in the ASGM sector in Zimbabwe and identifies processing gaps that negatively affect the sustainability of the small-scale mining sector in Zimbabwe. The focus was to identify improvement opportunities to make processing more efficient, less destructive to the environment and more meaningful to the operators. Preliminary analysis suggests that the deployment and use of appropriate technology for small-scale gold processing will significantly improve productivity and reduce impact of operations onthe environment. This paper further proposes ways of deploying such integrated and pragmatic interventions to the ASGM sector. Conference paper 2018-09-01T00:00:00Z