Zimbabwe Moves Forward with Zisco Revival Plans
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Efforts to revive the Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (Zisco) are gaining momentum, with the government outlining key strategies to restore the once-thriving steel giant to full operation.
Once regarded as Southern Africa’s largest steel producer, Zisco has been inactive since 2008 due to economic challenges, corruption, and mismanagement. At its peak, the company produced 1.2 million tonnes of steel per year and employed over 4,500 workers.
Industry and Commerce Minister Nqobizitha Ndlovu confirmed that plans are in motion to implement resolutions from last year’s iron and steel indaba, focusing on strategic partnerships with firms such as Dinson Iron and Steel Company, which began production in 2024.
“Dinson Iron and Steel’s entry into production presents a unique opportunity to build synergies with the existing Zisco plant and other downstream industries,” Ndlovu stated.
The minister further revealed that the government is close to signing a Memorandum of Understanding with two investors, expected to boost competition within Zimbabwe’s steel sector.
Efforts also include the revival of Lancashire Steel’s wire mill plant, which will manufacture wire rods, drawn wire, weld wire, and galvanised wire, creating over 20 jobs.
Additionally, Buchwa Iron and Steel Company will see the establishment of a limestone beneficiation plant, focused on producing burnt lime and aggregate stones.
“The Zisco board and management now have full authority to handle operations after terminating Kuvimba’s management contract due to non-performance,” Ndlovu said.
Zisco is mobilising resources to restart one of its kilns for limestone beneficiation, while Dinson Iron and Steel has agreed to leave certain steel products—such as shafts, beams, and wire—to be manufactured by Zisco.
Zimbabwe boasts over 30 billion tonnes of iron ore reserves, positioning it as a key player in regional and global steel production. Despite these vast resources, the industry has struggled since Zisco’s collapse, making its revival critical for industrial growth.
