Kamativi Tin Mine: A Hidden Gem for Adventure Tourism

Feb 23, 20244 min read

Introduction

Nestled amidst the rugged hills of Matabeleland North Province in Zimbabwe, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: Kamativi Tin Mine. Once a bustling hub of tin and tantalum extraction, Kamativi now beckons adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and investors alike. In this blog, we’ll unravel the allure of Kamativi, from its storied past to the thrilling adventures that await.

The Historical Tapestry

The Kamativi tin mine was one of the largest tin mines in Zimbabwe, operating from 1936 until 1994. The mine is situated in the Kamativi Formation, a granitic terrane that hosts highly fractionated lithium and tin-rich pegmatites. The mine has reserves amounting to 100 million tonnes of tin ore grading 0.28% tin, resulting in 0.28 million tonnes of tin. The mine also produced tantalum and lithium as by-products.

The mine employed about 3,000 workers at its peak and was a major source of income and development for the Kamativi community. However, the mine was forced to close in 1994 due to the collapse of the international tin price and the falling ore grades. The closure of the mine had a devastating impact on the local economy and the livelihoods of the residents, turning the town into a ghost town.

Revival: Lithium and Beyond

Kamativi Mining Company (KMC)

A New Dawn: KMC, a joint venture between China’s PD Group and ZMDC, breathed life back into Kamativi.
Lithium Quest: The focus shifted from tin to lithium. Drilling campaigns unveiled Zimbabwe’s largest lithium spodumene ore body.
Phase 1: By June 2023, KMC had commenced lithium mining and processing. A plant capable of handling 0.6 million tonnes of ore annually will bolster Zimbabwe’s lithium industry.
Phase 2: Come September 2024, a facility processing 1.2 million tonnes of ore per year will elevate Kamativi’s status further.

Lithium is a key component of batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, laptops and other devices, and its demand is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Adventure Awaits: Kamativi’s Terrain

The Potential for Zipline Activities

Despite the mine’s closure, the site still has a lot of potential for tourism and recreation. One of the most exciting possibilities is the development of a zipline network that would allow visitors to soar over the scenic landscape of the mine and its surroundings. The mine’s hilly terrain, with its steep slopes and deep valleys, provides an ideal setting for zipline adventures.

The zipline project is still a dream, but it has the potential to attract the interest of some investors and developers. The project is expected to create jobs and revenue for the Kamativi community, as well as to promote the conservation and rehabilitation of the mine’s environment. The zipline would also complement the existing and planned attractions in the area, such as the Kamavimba Restuarant and Bar which will be situated in the hills close the Ziplines, and the Kamativi lithium mine.

The Potential for Quad Biking and Hiking Trails

Another way to explore and enjoy the Kamativi tin mine is by quad biking or hiking. The mine’s extensive network of roads and tracks, which were used for transporting ore and equipment, can be repurposed as quad biking and hiking trails. These trails would allow visitors to experience the mine’s history and geology, as well as to discover the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area. The trails would also provide access to some of the mine’s features, such as the old buildings, the machinery, the shafts, and the pegmatites.

The quad biking and hiking trails would require some maintenance and safety measures, such as clearing the vegetation, repairing the surfaces, installing signs, and fencing off the hazardous areas. The trails would also need to be managed and regulated to ensure the protection of the mine’s heritage and environment. The trails would offer a fun and educational way to learn about the mine’s past, present, and future, as well as to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Kamativi region.

Rural Tourism Potential

Rural tourism has emerged as a powerful force for advancing sustainable development in various regions. Rural tourism can create income generating opportunities for Kamativi`s residents. Home stays, guided tours, and handicraft sales will allow community members to participate actively.

Calling All Visionaries: Invest in Kamativi

Zipline Project: Investors, envision the thrill. Kamativi’s hilly expanse awaits ziplines that defy gravity. Here lies your chance to create an unforgettable ziplining experience. Safety, thrill, and eco-conscious design—let’s make it happen!
Infrastructure: Accommodation, guided tours, safety measures—your investment shapes Kamativi’s adventure ecosystem.
Community Impact: By investing, you empower the community, create jobs, and preserve cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The Kamativi tin mine is a hidden gem for adventure seekers, who can find a variety of activities and attractions to suit their preferences and abilities. The mine’s history, geology, and scenery make it a unique and fascinating destination that deserves more attention and recognition. Imagine soaring above lush valleys, suspended by ziplines. Kamativi’s hilly terrain offers the perfect canvas. The mine’s potential for zipline, quad biking, and hiking activities is an opportunity to revitalize the mine and the community, as well as to showcase the mine’s value and possibly extend the life of the mine after mining activities are done which is of great importance for the country and the world.

References:

Kamativi Mine - Wikipedia
Kamativi Lithium Project Update - Mining Zimbabwe
Kamativi Tin Mine In Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe | The Diggings™
Kamativi Tin, the awakening giant - New Ziana