Tenders have been awarded for infrastructure projects at Anglo American's Unki mine in Zimbabwe. This first phase of the $90 million exploration is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2006.

Unki is Anglo American's first mine in the country, and is being managed by its subsidiary, Anglo American Zimbabwe (Amzim).

Dr Ezra Kanganga, Amzim's public relations manager, told Mining Weekly Online that trial mining on the project came to an end in August 2002, with the next stage of development expected soon after.

Current work includes upgrading roads approaching the shaft and the relocation of residents from dangerous areas of the site.

During the first phase of operations, 85,000 tons of ore are expected to be extracted from Unki, yielding a yearly total of 58,000 oz of platinum. This will be refined by Anglo Platinum in South Africa, as Zimbabwe is yet to construct a refinery.

The mine is expected to remain in operation for twenty years, and is forecast to produce 290 million tons of ore over that time. An estimated 1,300 jobs will be created.

In a reflection of the new concentration on social inclusion, a black empowerment scheme will ensure that 15 per cent of the mine's shareholding will be held by 'indigenous Zimbabweans.'

A scheme is also being discussed to give certain employees - although details are not yet clear - a five per cent stake in operations.