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“ It ’ s been particularly difficult to break into this current market for several reasons . Mines tend to be smaller these days , with more simplified processes . If we want to maintain our market share , we need to investigate areas where big companies can ’ t chase us out . In the grand scheme of things , we are not a huge operation . It takes a lot of investment for companies like us to really get their teeth into a project and bring it to fruition , but if you can do it , it makes a statement . That ’ s what we ’ re doing now .”
Rooted in community
The work Premier African Minerals does is interwoven with local communities and cultures . The company prides itself on hiring locally and furthers its reach through education and community outreach programs . As George asserts : “ Zimbabwe has one of
Our Zimbabwean operations are fully staffed by Zimbabweans
the highest literacy rates in Africa , which supports our local hiring practices . We can find skilled laborers throughout the region . Education systems are good , and that sets the foundation for us to provide our people with pathways toward professional development and growth . Within our teams , the work ethic is incredibly high . We rarely face issues when it comes to language differences , as everyone learns enough to communicate with others .
“ Our Zimbabwean operations are fully staffed by Zimbabweans . At our Zulu project we have a around 250 people with not one single expat , especially in general management and beyond . We want to stimulate local economies and reduce unemployment rates wherever possible . In addition , we take a lot of safeguarding measures . Although there is accommodation on site , we encourage staff to find homes in local communities . Alongside that , we provide opportunities for professional development , teaching promising individuals industry-specific skills that can take them even further .”
Hiring locally keeps Premier African Minerals ’ projects robust and self-sustaining , allowing the company to branch out into new ventures . “ Project Zulu is currently under production , and I think it ’ s going to be a very significant turning point for the business . Our aim is to become a revenue generative company , as opposed to one that has continued to grow through investment . We have now grown to the point that it ’ s time to reap our rewards ,” George concludes . ■
www . premierafricanminerals . com
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