Veteran Mining Engineer Fred Moyo Reappointed to Zimbabwe Mines Ministry

Fred Moyo has returned to government following his appointment as Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, a move that reinforces experienced leadership within one of the country’s most economically critical sectors. The appointment was confirmed by Emmerson Mnangagwa on December 17, 2025, underscoring the administration’s focus on strengthening governance and technical oversight in the mining industry.

In his new role, Moyo will deputise Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura, bringing decades of hands-on mining and policy experience back into the ministry. A qualified mining engineer, Moyo holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Mining Engineering and is widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s most experienced mining policymakers. His return is seen as a strategic effort to align technical expertise with government objectives aimed at boosting mineral production and regulatory efficiency.

Moyo is no stranger to the portfolio, having previously served as Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development between 2013 and 2017. Beyond government, he has built a long career in the mining sector, holding senior management positions at major operations including Hwange Colliery, Shabanie Mashava Mines, and Mwana Africa. He also served as President of the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, where he played a key role in industry advocacy and policy engagement.

In addition to his technical background, Moyo brings strong political credentials. He is a longstanding Member of Parliament for the Zvishavane Runde constituency and was re elected in 2023. This combination of legislative experience and industry knowledge positions him to play a pivotal role in navigating the complex regulatory, fiscal, and operational challenges facing Zimbabwe’s mining sector.

The appointment comes at a time when mining remains central to Zimbabwe’s economic strategy, contributing significantly to export earnings, employment, and fiscal revenue. By reinstating an experienced figure such as Fred Moyo, the government aims to strengthen regulatory oversight, accelerate the implementation of mining policy, and support increased mineral output across gold, platinum group metals, coal, and critical minerals.

Looking ahead, Moyo’s return is expected to have a stabilizing influence on Zimbabwe’s mining industry. His technical insight and institutional memory could help improve policy consistency, rebuild investor confidence, and enhance the sector’s contribution to national economic growth. For Zimbabwe, where mining is a key driver of development, experienced leadership at the ministry level may prove instrumental in translating mineral wealth into broader economic benefits.

Image Credit: LinkedIn Account of Mining Zimbabwe

Mini-Glossary

• Regulatory oversight: Government supervision to ensure mining activities comply with laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
• Mining policy: A framework of laws and guidelines that govern mineral exploration, development, and production.
• Export earnings: Income generated from selling minerals and other goods to international markets.
• Institutional memory: Knowledge gained from past experience within an organization or government body.
• Critical minerals: Minerals considered essential for economic development and modern technologies.

Editor: Vural Burç ÇAKIR