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Premier’s Zulu lithium project shows a lot of promise

Published

4 years ago

August 17, 2021

BY SIMONE LIEDTKE

Diversified miner Premier African Minerals’ scoping study for its Zulu lithium project, in Zimbabwe, has found a significant increase in spodumene concentrate prices, which is set to benefit the miner as concentrate selling processes are projected to continue improving.

Premier has already embarked on a definitive feasibility study at Zulu, with drilling well under way and two rigs operating at present.

Preliminary work continues to support the findings set out in the scoping study, with CEO George Roach confirming on August 16 that specific examples include an overall reduction in certain specific costs in Matabeleland, most notably in respect of labour and the confirmation of the projected logistics costs on a free-on-board Beira basis.

“It is interesting to note the significant increase in Zulu’s net present value with improved and projected spodumene concentrate pricing compared with Premier’s present market capitalisation,” Roach commented.

The scoping study, initiated in 2017, identified a target production of 84 000 t/y of spodumene concentrate and 32 500 t/y of petalite concentrate for an initial 15-year life-of-mine to be the most appropriate option and was based on prices of $800/t of spodumene and $400/t of petalite concentrate.

The updated scoping study models three scenarios for different spodumene concentrate sales prices to illustrate the impact of the recent significant increase in prices of spodumene and petalite.

In addition, Bara Consulting, which compiled the scoping study, escalated the capital and operating costs by US inflation for a period of four years (at a rate of two percent a year) as costs are reported in dollars.

No further changes have been made to the underlying economic, technical, engineering or processing assumptions used in the scoping study, nor resources nor the mine plan.

Overall, the improvement in spodumene pricing and, therefore, the revenue factors, have a significant positive improvement in the economic results despite the escalated capital and operating costs, Premier said. – Mining Weekly

National

Zimbabwe Republic Police officer faces charges for allegedly claiming to be ZRP boss

Published

19 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer appeared in court today facing charges of causing disaffection among police officers, procuring the use of a motor vehicle by fraud, and transmitting false data messages intending to cause harm.

Simbarashe Mandizvidza, an Assistant Inspector in the ZRP, was remanded in custody to Monday, when he will apply for bail.

According to the State, Mandizvidza on August 14, broadcast a video on his YouTube channel, Gondo Harishaye, claiming to be the head of the ZRP, despite knowing that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba holds the position.

The State alleges that Mandizvidza’s actions were intended to cause disaffection among police officers, contrary to Section 30 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.

Mandizvidza is also accused of procuring the use of a Ford Ranger vehicle by misrepresenting to Chief Inspector Chiteure that he had been instructed by Commissioner Makomo to use the vehicle for errands.

Furthermore, the State alleges that Mandizvidza transmitted false data messages on his YouTube channel, including claims that the ZRP Traffic section had been temporarily disbanded and that Chinese nationals must leave Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

The State indicated that it will oppose Mandizvidza’s bail application, citing the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public interest.

The case continues on Monday.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

1 day ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

1 day ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.