YOUNG Miners Foundation (YMF) has secured 300 hectares of chrome rich land to wash the mineral in Mvurwi in a structured, formalised and professional youth-led chrome processing initiative, NewsDay Business can reveal.
The project, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Artisanal Miners Association (Zama), aims to create employment opportunities for at least 500 people and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Chrome washing is the process in mining the mineral that separates chrome ore from other materials to improve its quality and grade.
In an interview with NewsDay Business, YMF chief executive officer Payne Kupfuwa said the initiative was geared toward developing structured entrepreneurship within the chrome sector.
“We have secured 300 hectares of chrome-rich land in Mvurwi, and this marks more than just a project — it’s a transformation of how small-scale mining is done in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“Our members will run small, capitalised chrome washing operations, progressing from raw extraction to chrome concentrate production.”
The land, part of the Zim Alloys chrome portfolio, will host small-capitalised companies run by YMF members, focused on processing chrome into chrome concentrate.
Mvurwi is a town located in the Mashonaland Central province.
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“We are laying the groundwork for a thriving chrome industry in Zimbabwe. As we set up formalised and professional entrepreneurship, we’re developing our processing plants to reach medium to large-scale production capacity,” Kupfuwa said.
“This expansion will have a significant impact on employment, with at least 500 people set to benefit from direct employment opportunities.”
He added that they were expecting a surge in economic activity, as participants in the small chrome value chain and suppliers of goods and services flocked to support their operations.
“The formalisation of our chrome mining operations is a game-changer. By developing our processing plants and boosting efficiency, we’re poised to unlock new opportunities for growth and development,” Kupfuwa said.
“This isn’t about quick wins or survival; it’s about building structured, professional businesses that empower young miners to become real entrepreneurs.”
He noted that the right foundations were in place, from borehole drilling and sanitation to aligning the project with Environmental Management Agency, Zimbabwe National Water Authority and Mines and Mining Development ministry regulations.
Zama president Constance Muchoni echoed Kupfuwa’s sentiments.
“Our partnership with YMF is revolutionising the chrome mining landscape. We’re working with small, capitalised companies to establish efficient chrome washing operations, converting raw chrome into high-quality chrome concentrate,” she said.
“Through this collaboration, we’re unlocking the potential of artisanal miners.
“By working together, we’re providing the necessary support and resources for small, capitalised companies to succeed in chrome washing and concentrate production.”
She added: “Together, we’re building a sustainable future for artisanal mining, one that prioritises economic viability, environmental responsibility and social welfare.
“This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when stakeholders work together towards a common goal.”
