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China-Africa Trade Information Service
http://info.afrindex.com
China-Africa Trade Information Service
Zimbabwe's planned Dokwe gold mine could begin production in 2028, adding a new source of industrial output as the country seeks to build on recent growth in a sector that accounted for 44% of its exports last year.
Kerim Sener, managing director of Ariana Resources, outlined the 2028 target in comments cited by Reuters on August 6. The timeline comes as the project prepares to enter its first pre-development stages in the coming months.
Ariana plans to invest $164 million in Dokwe, according to a prefeasibility study published in May 2026. The project is expected to produce an average of 80,000 ounces of gold a year over a 12-year mine life, with output potentially reaching 100,000 ounces at its peak.
A definitive feasibility study, expected in 2027, will refine those estimates. Until now, Ariana had not provided a date for the start of production. Sener’s comments offer the first indication of a timeline for Dokwe, one of several projects that could support Zimbabwe’s plans to expand its gold industry.
Zimbabwe's gold production rose from 38.6 tons in 2024 to 46.7 tons in 2025. The increase was driven mainly by artisanal miners, and the country expects growth to continue as it targets 50 tons of production in 2026, supported in part by new industrial projects.
Beyond Dokwe, Zimbabwe is awaiting the development of Caledonia Mining's Bilboes project and the restart of historic operations such as Redwing, operated by Namib Minerals. The sharp rise in gold prices since 2024 has also created a favorable market environment for these investments.
Several Steps Remain Before Production
Dokwe still faces several milestones before it can enter production. Ariana Resources will need to secure construction financing, with funding requirements to be refined in the definitive feasibility study, obtain the necessary regulatory approvals and finalize engineering contracts before construction can begin.
The project therefore has several hurdles to clear before its planned 2028 start. Once operational, Dokwe could add production to an industry that already plays a central role in Zimbabwe’s economy.
According to Isaac Kwesu, chief executive of the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, gold accounted for 44% of the country’s exports in 2025, while nearly 2 million Zimbabweans depend on the industry for their livelihoods.
