Published: 04 April 2018

The country's diamond production is on a rebound after government-owned Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Corporation (ZCDC) produced 751,000 carats of the precious gems in the first quarter of this year compared to 423,000 carats during the same period 2017.

Official data obtained by the ZBC News from the diamond mining firm indicate production continues to grow with first quarter output of 751,303 carats against a target of 600,000 carats.

The trend which reflects a 25 percent rise above target from 422, 518 carats in the first quarter of last year comes on the back of government having injected US$80 million in the firm to recapitalise operations and ensure strong contribution of diamonds to economic growth.

Contacted for comment this Wednesday, ZCDC Chief Executive Officer Dr Morris Mpofu says diamond production is expected to reach 1.8 million carats by year end.

"We are doing our best despite the tough operating conditions and you can see for yourself that we have since doubled output," said Dr Mpofu.

The government as the key shareholder in the mining firm is also focusing on value addition and beneficiation of the precious gems in order to get a fair share return of the minerals in terms of export receipts.
- zbc

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