Mining and energy executive, Engineer Collins Takunda Mnangagwa, has called for a shift in how mining-related power infrastructure is planned, saying high-voltage lines and substations built for mines must also benefit surrounding communities.
Eng Mnangagwa said when an industrial project brings high-voltage power infrastructure into a remote mining district, that infrastructure should never serve the mine alone.
“When an industrial project brings high-voltage power lines or substations into a remote mining district, that infrastructure should never serve the mine alone,” he said.
He argued that true regional development requires a dual-use mindset in infrastructure planning.
According to Mnangagwa, upgraded grid connections and reliable local power supply enable rural commercial hubs, schools, and small enterprises to grow, mechanise and participate in the modern economy.
“True regional development requires a dual-use mindset. Upgraded grid connections and reliable local power supply allow rural commercial hubs, schools, and small enterprises to grow, mechanise, and participate in the modern economy,” he wrote.
The engineer, who has interests in the mining and energy sectors, added that private capital deployed in infrastructure must leave a lasting impact beyond the mine gate.
“Private capital in infrastructure must always leave a permanent, uplifting footprint for the surrounding community,” he said.
His comments come as Zimbabwe pushes for more value addition, local content and community beneficiation around major mining investments, particularly in lithium, platinum and gold producing districts where grid infrastructure has historically been weak.
The call for shared-use power infrastructure aligns with growing industry debate on how to ensure that large-scale mining investments anchor broader rural industrialisation, rather than operating as isolated enclaves.
