It is reported that Hwange Colliery Company Limited directors last week toured some leading coal mining firms in South Africa to familiarize with the latest production systems ahead of the colliery recapitalization.

The coal miner will soon undertake a USD 175 million recapitalization program involving the purchase of new equipment and latest technology to enhance production.

Mr Burzil Dube Company spokesperson said the purpose of the tour of the SA mines was to acquaint themselves with the superior technology and to understand the processes and practices which drive their performance.

He said that "Hwange will soon embark on a massive recapitalization program and this will involve acquisition of state of the art equipment and investing in the latest technology."

He added that "In view of this, we would like to benchmark our production systems with those of other mining firms by incorporating these best practices into our own mining operations to enhance efficiency."

Mr Dube said the mines visited were New Vaal Colliery, an open-cast mine controlled by Anglo America and Zibulo Colliery, an underground mine..

He said that "These are major players in coal production and the visit was an eye opener. This will certainly go a long way in transforming our operations.”

Mr Dube would not shed light on progress made so far with regards to securing funds for recapitalization. He said that "The negotiations are now at a critical stage and it is not proper for us to comment."

The Hwange Colliery delegation, which comprised board members and top executives, was led by Chairman Mr Farai Mutamangira.

(Sourced from allafrica.com)