Tiyani Hahlani
In a significant boost to Zimbabwe’s value addition drive, Bikita Minerals has announced the construction of a US$400 million cesium smelting plant, a project expected to catalyze local economic development and support the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
The announcement was made during a high-level tour of the mine on July 14, where Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, lauded the company for its progressive approach to mineral beneficiation.
“This is a massive step forward in ensuring that we stop exporting our minerals in raw form. Bikita Minerals is setting an example of responsible and progressive mining that benefits both the community and the national economy,” said Chadzamira.
The cesium smelter marks a bold new phase in Bikita Minerals’ operations, as the company moves beyond lithium extraction to diversify into high-value mineral processing.
Cesium, a rare and strategic mineral, is used in various advanced technologies including electronics, medical devices, and energy storage systems.
Strengthening Zimbabwe’s global position
In a statement posted on its X platform, Bikita Minerals said the project underscores its commitment to long-term investment and sustainable growth in Zimbabwe.
“Our planned cesium smelting facility is a long-term investment in Zimbabwe’s future. It reflects our strong belief in local beneficiation and sustainable growth,” the company posted.
The company emphasized that the smelter will not only enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in global mineral markets—particularly in the battery and energy sectors—but also support critical local needs.
Economic impact and community development
The smelter is expected to create hundreds of jobs during both construction and operation phases, while stimulating downstream industries and infrastructure development in Bikita district. Local suppliers, contractors, and service providers are also set to benefit from increased demand as the project progresses.
The initiative aligns closely with the government’s broader push to transform Zimbabwe from an exporter of raw minerals to a hub for processing and manufacturing. Under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 strategy, value addition in mining is a key pillar in building an upper middle-income economy.
Leading the charge in mineral beneficiation
Bikita Minerals is one of Zimbabwe’s largest lithium producers and has steadily positioned itself as a leader in mineral diversification and processing. With the recent expansion into cesium extraction, the company is reinforcing its role in advancing the country’s beneficiation agenda.
The cesium smelting project is expected to serve as a blueprint for other mining operations across Zimbabwe, demonstrating how responsible mining can drive both economic growth and community upliftment.
