By Chipo Gudhe
A US$12 million chrome processing plant under construction in Kwekwe is set to employ over 500 people and produce up to 35,000 tonnes of ferrochrome per month when it reaches full operational capacity, a major boost for both local employment and the economy of the Midlands Province.
Global Union Alloy, the company behind the project, has so far completed the first phase of the plant and is currently in its second phase of development. The chrome smelting plant is expected to be completed by August 2025.
Speaking during a tour of the site on Monday, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Midlands, Owen Ncube, praised the investment as a major milestone in value addition and beneficiation of Zimbabwe’s vast mineral resources.
“I am delighted to tour the Global Union Alloy chrome processing plant, which is currently at 40 percent completion. Once operational, the plant will produce 35,000 tonnes of ferrochrome per month and create over 500 jobs. This aligns perfectly with the Second Republic’s vision for private sector-led economic transformation,” he said.
At present, 106 locals are employed during the construction phase. Global Union Alloy manager Kudakwashe Chitakure confirmed that the number of workers will increase substantially once the smelter becomes fully operational.
“Now we have completed the first phase and we are on the second phase. Once all the five furnaces are complete, we will produce 35,000 tonnes of alloy per month. Currently, we have employed 106 people, but the number will rise to 500,” Chitakure said.
The company, however, is grappling with delays in securing a high-voltage electricity connection, which is essential for full-scale operations.
Minister Ncube pledged swift government intervention to resolve the power issue and facilitate the required work permits for foreign specialists.
“My office will ensure all challenges are addressed quickly in line with the Second Republic’s ease of doing business reforms,” he said.
Midlands Province is home to some of Zimbabwe’s largest chrome reserves, contributing 85 percent to national production. The new plant joins a growing list of chrome smelting operations in the province, including Zim Alloys, Zimasco, and several other Chinese-run facilities.
Minister Ncube urged local authorities to complement such investments through modern infrastructure and efficient service delivery.
“This project is a testimony to our potential when the private sector and government work together. It also reaffirms Kwekwe’s position as a hub for mining and industrial development,” he said.
