National Strategic Think Tank on Minerals a MUST, Says Jimayi Muduvuri

By Chiyedzo Josiah Dimbo

Zimbabwe, a country rich in natural resources, has the potential to emerge as the economic powerhouse of Africa, often drawing comparisons to the prosperity seen in Dubai. According to Kadoma-based businessman Jimayi Muduvuri, the country is blessed with vast God-given minerals, including diamonds, gold, lithium, copper, steel, platinum, chrome, and various gemstones, all of which could play a transformative role in the nation’s economic development. However, Muduvuri asserts that for Zimbabwe to fully leverage its mineral wealth, the establishment of a National Strategic Think Tank on Minerals is essential.

In his statement, Muduvuri emphasized that the success of Zimbabwe’s mineral sector lies in a coordinated and well-managed approach. He proposes a model akin to Botswana’s, a country that has effectively used its diamond resources to drive economic growth. According to Muduvuri, Zimbabwe must establish a think tank specifically focused on the strategic management of its minerals, as this will enable the country to maximize its wealth in a sustainable and productive way.

**A Sustainable Model for Mineral Development**

Muduvuri’s proposal includes the nationalization of strategic minerals , such as diamonds, lithium, and steel, under government stewardship. By bringing these resources under state control, the country would be in a better position to direct revenues towards vital sectors such as industrial and infrastructure development. This approach would ensure that the profits generated from minerals are reinvested into the national economy, rather than being extracted for the benefit of a select few.

He points out that Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth, if properly managed, has the potential to create a significant ripple effect across various industries. The model he envisions would promote long-term stability and ensure that the economic benefits of these natural resources are felt across all sectors of society.

**Massive Employment Creation and Middle-Class Growth**

The ultimate goal of this strategy is not just economic growth, but the creation of jobs and the expansion of Zimbabwe’s middle class. As the government targets the establishment of a middle-class economy by 2030, the strategic management of its mineral resources could be a key driver in meeting this ambitious goal.

Muduvuri believes that by channeling the wealth from minerals into infrastructure, industry, and job creation, Zimbabwe could see a reduction in unemployment and an increase in the standard of living for its citizens. In this vision, the mineral sector acts as a springboard for wider economic development, with Zimbabwe becoming a beacon of prosperity in Africa.

**Conclusion**

Jimayi Muduvuri’s call for the establishment of a National Strategic Think Tank on Minerals underscores the urgent need for Zimbabwe to harness its natural resources in a more structured and strategic manner. By adopting a model similar to that of Botswana and focusing on government stewardship, Zimbabwe could see its mineral wealth translated into widespread industrial development, job creation, and a prosperous future for its people. The time to act is now, as the country has the potential to be the next economic giant of Africa, provided it makes the right strategic decisions in managing its vast resources.