The Government’s decision to place the Hwange Colliery Company (HCCL) under administration has proved to be a strategic move as evidenced by increased production which has enabled the company to meet most of its financial obligations, including paying salaries on time.
The once struggling coal miner has since injected over US$8 million into the resuscitation of its coke oven battery, which had been dormant for more than a decade.
The project, now nearing completion, is expected to propel monthly coke production beyond 18 000 tonnes, reinforcing the company’s pivotal role in the country’s energy and industrial sectors.
During a tour of HCCL’s key projects, Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo witnessed the progress being made, particularly on the coke oven battery, which is now set for warming up this June.
Cde Richard Moyo
The company’s managing director, Engineer William Gambiza, updated Minister Moyo on the coke oven battery project.
“We decided to go on this critical project as an important step in reviving the company’s fortunes. Our battery is now ready for warming up this June. We invested US$8,1 million in this project,” he said.
Eng Gambiza said the US$8,1 million investment reflects the company’s commitment to modernisation and sustainable growth, aligning with the Government’s vision for a robust mining sector under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
The investment is expected to significantly boost coke production, meeting the rising demand both locally and internationally.
There is high demand for coke, a key component in steelmaking and other industrial processes and HCCL wants to capitalise on this.
“We want to commend the Government for its decision to place HCCL under administration. We see the results of the company’s resurgence. Workers are now getting paid on time, the Government is also getting its dividend, and we are proud of the work being done by management,” said Minister Moyo.
He said the revival of HCCL has positive economic impact, particularly in Matabeleland North where the company remains a major employer and a key driver of industrial activity.
Beyond coke production, HCCL plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s energy sector, supplying coal for power generation at Hwange Thermal Power Station and other industrial users. The company’s resurgence ensures a steady coal supply, which is critical for alleviating the country’s power challenges.
Additionally, the revival of the coke oven battery strengthens synergies with other local coke producers, who rely on HCCL for raw materials.
This approach not only boosts the mining sector but also supports downstream industries, including steel and ferro-alloy production.
With the coke oven battery now set for commissioning, HCCL is poised to reclaim its position as a leading coal and coke producer in the region.
As HCCL continues on its upward trajectory, the focus remains on maximising production, improving operational efficiency, and contributing to Zimbabwe’s industrialisation agenda.
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