HARARE, Jun. (NewsDay Live) - Redwing Mine has reconnected to Zimbabwe’s national electricity grid, a development expected to accelerate dewatering operations and support community development initiatives in Penhalonga as the gold mine moves closer to full-scale operations.
The mine, owned by NASDAQ-listed Namib Minerals, announced last week that it had successfully restored grid power following the installation of new power infrastructure in partnership with the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC).
“The investment in power infrastructure is expected to support ongoing mine dewatering while also benefiting the surrounding community,” the company said in a statement.
The project included the installation of power lines, a new substation and transformer at the mine, marking a significant milestone in the phased restart of the historic gold operation.
Management said the return of electricity would strengthen ongoing dewatering activities, a critical process required to access underground workings that have been flooded for years.
“The return of grid power is important for Redwing’s dewatering programme, a critical step in the mine’s restart that will allow access to underground workings,” Namib Minerals said.
According to the company, four additional submersible pumps have now been connected to the grid, significantly increasing pumping capacity.
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Since dewatering commenced at the end of January, approximately one million cubic metres of water have been removed from the mine.
“Four additional submersible pumps have now been connected to the grid, significantly boosting pumping capacity,” the statement said, adding that pumping rates had accelerated to 1 400 cubic metres per hour.
The restoration of power is also expected to deliver wider benefits to the surrounding Penhalonga community.
“The benefits of the power restoration extend beyond the mine,” the company said.
Namib Minerals said it had already upgraded a local clinic that provides free basic healthcare services to residents and acquired an ambulance to strengthen emergency medical services in the area.
The company said it was also assessing further support initiatives jointly with the community.
Redwing Mine is one of Zimbabwe’s historic gold assets and has previously produced about 650 000 ounces of gold. The project currently hosts 1,18 million ounces of gold in measured and indicated resources and is expected to contribute significantly to the group’s future growth.
Industry observers say the successful dewatering programme and restoration of key infrastructure will be closely watched as the company advances plans to return the mine to production.
