Prestige Massive (Pvt) Limited, a Chinese company, is constructing a massive 1,200 MW coal-fired power and chrome smelting plant. This project is expected to transform the fortunes of the border town, bringing economic growth and job opportunities.
Recently, abnormal load haulage delivery trucks have been spotted bringing equipment from various seaports to the plant site. Currently, at least 300 villagers are employed in the project, with the company seeking an additional 80 to 100 skilled workers to join the workforce.
The power plant was first publicly discussed two weeks ago at the Matabeleland South Diaspora Conference in Beitbridge. The plant will source coal from Tuli Coal, a mine located about 20 kilometers west of Beitbridge, and will support other factories planned under the special economic zone.
According to the Global Energy Monitor, plans for the plant were revealed in November 2023 when a proposal to construct, own, and operate the power and smelting plant at River Ranch, just outside Beitbridge town, was advertised. The report noted that all electricity generated would be supplied to a chrome smelting plant owned by Xintai Resources, which is proposing a special economic zone in Beitbridge. Prestige Massive had filed an application for an electricity generation license with the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority.
Although the Global Energy Monitor report indicated no significant updates as of May 2024, the project’s capital outlay is estimated at US$1.4 billion, making it one of the largest investments in Matabeleland South to date. A government official, speaking anonymously, mentioned that substantial funds were being moved around for the project. The official highlighted the visible infrastructure and large-scale activities at the site, including recent interviews for skilled positions attended by about 70 candidates.
Local residents from Beitbridge have been employed as unskilled laborers, joining many Chinese nationals on-site. The project is being carried out in three phases. The completion of Tuli Coal mine is part of the first stage. The second stage involves the construction of the thermal power plant, and the third stage will see the establishment of the smelting plant.
The thermal plant is currently under construction, with large installations, believed to be coolers, already in place. The ferrochrome and steel production will utilize raw materials sourced from mines in Mberengwa, Gwanda, and other nearby areas. Beitbridge residents are excited about the development. Loud Ramakgapola, the town clerk, stated that the project would stimulate economic activity and growth in the town. He expressed hope that the company would also invest in building accommodations for its workers to further enhance development.
Albert Nguluvhe, a Zanu PF lawmaker, welcomed the project, stating that it demonstrated the government’s commitment to ensuring no place is left behind. He hoped that more locals would be engaged in general labor positions as the project progressed.
The first stage of the project, involving the completion of Tuli Coal mine, is crucial as it will provide the necessary coal to power the thermal plant. The resuscitation of the coal mine is not a stand-alone project but is integral to the overall development plan. The second stage, which focuses on the thermal plant, is already seeing significant progress with the installation of key components.
The thermal plant will play an important role in supporting the third stage, the establishment of the smelting plant. This plant will produce ferrochrome and steel, with raw materials sourced from nearby mines. The integration of these stages ensures a comprehensive development strategy that will significantly impact the region’s economy.
