Small scale mining in Zimbabwe is one of the most powerful engines of economic growth in the country. And yet, for too long, many of the hardworking men and women driving it have done so without proper financial support. That is changing. We as ZB Financial Holdings were proud to participate in MINEX 2026, held on 9 April 2026 at the Gresham Primary School grounds in Zvishavane. And this year, our presence meant even more because we are celebrating 75 years in Zimbabwe's financial sector.
This milestone is not just ours. It belongs to every miner, every small business owner, and every community that has shaped who we are. MINEX 2026 was our opportunity to give back.
“Access to finance is consistently identified as one of the biggest constraints facing small and medium enterprises, limiting their ability to grow, invest, and contribute fully to economic development.”
— Jim Yong Kim, Former President, World Bank Group
Small Scale Mining in Zimbabwe: The Backbone of Our Economy
Small scale mining in Zimbabwe is far more than a livelihood. It is a cornerstone of the national economy. From gold to chrome, artisanal and small-scale miners contribute significantly to Zimbabwe's mineral production, export earnings, and employment creation.
Zimbabwe is one of Africa's most mineral-rich countries. The small-scale and artisanal mining sector plays a vital role in gold production and forex generation, contributing meaningfully to the country's Vision 2030 economic targets.
Why Artisanal Miners Are Driving Zimbabwe's Growth
Artisanal miners in Zimbabwe are resourceful, resilient, and determined. They operate in some of the country's most challenging environments and yet continue to produce results. The mining sector's contribution to GDP in Zimbabwe continues to grow and small scale miners are central to that story.
The challenge, however, has always been access. Access to capital. Access to banking. Access to the formal financial system. That is precisely where we come in.
Why ZB Banking Is Championing the Small Scale Mining Sector
Supporting small scale mining in Zimbabwe is not just good business, it is the right thing to do. As ZB Financial Holdings, we understand that many artisanal miners operate outside the formal banking system. This limits their ability to grow, invest, and build sustainable mining businesses.
By participating in platforms such as MINEX 2026, we do more than attend an expo. We actively work to integrate miners into the formal financial system, improving transparency, accountability, and long-term prosperity for mining communities across Zimbabwe.
75 Years of Walking With Zimbabwe's Communities
This year, we are celebrating 75 years in Zimbabwe's financial sector. Over those seven decades, we have seen communities grow, businesses transform, and lives change through access to the right financial tools. The artisanal and small-scale mining sector has been part of that journey, and we want to continue walking that road together.
We thought: what better way to mark 75 years than by deepening our commitment to the communities that shaped our DNA?
Financial Inclusion as a Tool for Formalising Mining in Zimbabwe
Financial inclusion is at the heart of formalising small scale mining in Zimbabwe. When miners have access to formal banking services, they can build credit histories, access loans, and invest in better equipment. This improves safety standards, boosts production, and helps miners grow from informal operations into sustainable, registered businesses.
We provide financial literacy training to help miners manage income and expenses, plan and budget their operations, and understand their tax and regulatory obligations. This is not just banking, it is business development.
Financial Solutions Designed for Small Scale Miners
We as ZB offer a comprehensive one-stop shop of financial services tailored to the needs of small scale and artisanal miners. Our nationwide network of Service Centres means that wherever you mine, we are not far away.
From Mukando Wallets to Asset Finance — ZB Has You Covered
- Banking & Digital Wallets — Our Mukando Wallet and Smile Cash Wallet make it easy for miners to transact, save, and manage their money digitally, without always needing to visit a branch.
- Microfinance — For miners just starting to formalise their operations, our microfinance solutions provide accessible, manageable funding to get things moving.
- Asset Finance — Need new equipment? Our asset finance facility helps you acquire the tools you need to mine more efficiently and safely.
- Working Capital Finance — Keep your operations running smoothly with working capital solutions designed for the realities of mining business in Zimbabwe.
- Insurance — Protect what matters. We offer cash funeral cover and asset insurance for miners and their families.
- Investments — Through ZB Asset Management, miners can begin building long-term wealth and financial security.
- Financial Advisory — ZB Capital provides expert financial advisory services to help miners structure their businesses, plan for growth, and access the right funding.
- ZB Gold Buying Centres — We also operate gold buying centres, making it easier for miners to sell their gold through formal, regulated channels.
To access ZB Bank's financial services, miners will need a ZB Bank account (with ID, proof of residence, a passport-size photo, and mine registration papers or FGR receipts). For loans, a proven record of FGR deposits is required. Amounts above USD 20,000 require collateral security. An EIA certificate and EMA licence are also required.
Highlights at MINEX 2026 - Zvishavane, 9 April
MINEX 2026 is Zimbabwe's premier mining expo for small scale and artisanal miners. This year, it was held in Zvishavane on 9 April 2026 at the Gresham Primary School grounds.
At the ZB Bank exhibition stand at MINEX 2026, attendees were able to:
- Learn about our full range of tailored banking products for miners
- Get detailed information on loan facilities and equipment financing
- Open a ZB Bank account on the spot
- Attend one-on-one financial advisory sessions with our team
- Network with equipment suppliers, regulators, investors, and industry partners
- Explore funding opportunities and build long-term banking relationships
MINEX 2026 is about more than just an event. It is about unlocking the next chapter of your mining business, with the right financial partner by your side. Mining investment in Zimbabwe is growing, and ZB Bank is positioned to help you tap into that opportunity.
MINEX 2026 in Zvishavane was a moment for Zimbabwe's mining community to connect with the right financial partner. Let us show you what 75 years of experience, commitment, and trust can do for your mining business. Together, we can transform today's mining potential into tomorrow's prosperity; for you, your family, and for Zimbabwe.
How to Access Financial Services for Small Scale Mining in Zimbabwe
Small scale mining in Zimbabwe is a growing sector and accessing the right financial support can transform your operation. Here is how to get started with ZB Bank in five simple steps.
Step 1: Open a ZB Bank Account
Visit your nearest ZB Service Centre and bring your national ID, proof of residence, and a passport-size photo. Opening an account is your first step into the formal financial system and unlocks access to all ZB services.
Step 2: Register Your Mining Operation
Ensure your mine is formally registered. You will need your mine registration papers or FGR receipts. If you have not yet registered, contact the Zimbabwe Mines and Minerals Authority for guidance.
Step 3: Obtain Your Required Licences and Certificates
Secure your EIA certificate from the Environmental Management Agency and your EMA licence. These are mandatory requirements for accessing mining finance in Zimbabwe.
Step 4: Build Your FGR Deposit Record
Consistently deposit your gold through the Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR). A proven FGR deposit record is a key requirement when applying for a mining loan with ZB Bank.
Step 5: Apply for the Right Financial Product
Speak to a ZB Bank representative at a service centre (branch), at MINEX 2026, or online to identify the right product for your needs, whether that is microfinance, asset finance, working capital finance, or a digital wallet solution.
FAQ About Small Scale Mining in Zimbabwe
What is small scale mining in Zimbabwe? +
Small scale mining in Zimbabwe refers to mining activities carried out by individuals or small groups using limited capital and equipment, often focused on gold and other minerals. It is a key contributor to Zimbabwe's economy, employment, and foreign currency earnings.
How does ZB Bank support small scale miners in Zimbabwe? +
We as ZB Financial Holdings offer a full suite of services for miners, including banking, microfinance, asset finance, working capital finance, insurance, investments, and financial advisory services, all accessible through our nationwide network of Service Centres.
What documents do I need to apply for a mining loan at ZB Bank? +
You will need a ZB Bank account, your national ID, proof of residence, mine registration papers or FGR receipts, a proven FGR deposit record, an EIA certificate, and an EMA licence. Loans above USD 20,000 also require collateral security.
What is MINEX 2026 and how can I participate? +
MINEX 2026 is a mining expo for small scale and artisanal miners in Zimbabwe, taking place on 9 April 2026 at the Gresham Primary School grounds in Zvishavane. ZB Bank will have an exhibition stand where you can open an account, access financial advice, and explore loan options.
How does financial inclusion help formalise small scale mining in Zimbabwe? +
Financial inclusion helps miners move from informal, cash-based operations into the formal financial system. This improves access to capital, encourages proper record-keeping, supports business registration, and enables miners to invest in better equipment and safer, more productive operations.
