Leadership in mining often shapes decisions that stretch far beyond the boardroom. For thousands of small-scale miners across Zimbabwe, the direction taken by the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) can influence opportunities, investment and how the sector grows.

That is why delegates at the ZMF’s Special General Council Meeting and Annual General Meeting voted to extend President Henrietta Rushwaya’s tenure until 2033. The resolution, which also extends the term of office for the federation’s executive from five years to seven, was adopted as part of what the organisation described as a move to maintain policy continuity and institutional stability in one of Zimbabwe’s key economic sectors.

According to Mining Zimbabwe, the proposal was first presented by Mashonaland West representative Timothy Chizuzu before receiving support from Midlands Chairman Makumba Nyenje.

Nyenje also successfully proposed an amendment that extends the tenure of General Council members to 2033, subject to the necessary constitutional amendments.

The federation says consistent leadership is needed to build on ongoing reforms and provide stability as the mining sector continues to attract capital and expand into emerging markets.

Following the vote, Rushwaya remains at the helm of an executive that includes Vice President Marufu Sithole, Secretary General Morgan Mugawu, Treasurer General Prosper Shumba, Women’s Affairs Secretary Jessica Mazivazvose, Youth Secretary Darlington Ndlovu, Secretary for People Living with Disabilities Purazeni Jakata, Base Minerals Secretary Gift Karanda, and Gemstones and Industrial Minerals Secretary Privilege Moyo.

The decision comes as Zimbabwe continues to place mining at the centre of its economic ambitions, with the federation expected to play a significant role in representing the country’s small-scale miners in the years ahead.