MANUFACTURERS OF ROLLER SHUTTER DOORS, GARAGE & SLIDING DOORS. SUPPLIERS OF SLIDING DOORS SYSTEM
BW Mining: Forging a New Frontier
Text by Farai Chaka
Few events in the mining and construction industries have been as transformative as the birth of BW Mining. This new powerhouse, born from the strategic acquisition of R. Davis & Co. by Bitumen World (Pvt) Ltd, is not simply the result of a financial transaction—it is the culmination of decades of expertise, innovation and relentless dedication to quality. BW Mining is uniting two storied legacies under one banner to redefine what is possible in infrastructure and mining development across Southern Africa.
Bitumen World’s journey is one marked by visionary transformation. Once known primarily as a road surfacing specialist, Bitumen World has grown into a leading infrastructure developer with a track record of over 500 completed projects. Their expertise spans the production of hot and cold asphalt, the construction and rehabilitation of roads and the manufacturing of pre-cast units that are the backbone of modern urban landscapes.
Additionally, the company has built a strong reputation in concrete works, with a dedicated batch plant, a fleet of concrete mixers and transport trucks that enable the efficient execution of bridges, culverts, and other reinforced concrete structures. This expansion into concrete solutions complements BW Mining’s broader infrastructure capabilities, allowing for more comprehensive project execution.
Over the years, Bitumen World has embraced technological advancements and honed its craft, consistently delivering projects that blend traditional construction know-how with innovative techniques. This blend of legacy and modernity has positioned the company as a trusted partner in Zimbabwe’s construction industry—a reputation built on precision, punctuality, and professionalism.
In parallel, R. Davis & Co. has carved out its own distinguished path. With decades of experience in contract mining, civil works, and comprehensive water and sewage solutions, R. Davis & Co. has become synonymous with quality and safety in complex projects. Their portfolio is a testament to their commitment to environmental and social responsibility, executing large-scale earthworks, mining infrastructure developments, and urban civil projects with a focus on sustainable practices.
Known for tackling some of the most challenging contracts in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, R. Davis & Co.’s deep-rooted expertise has earned them unwavering trust from clients who demand nothing but the best.
The formation of BW Mining is the natural evolution of these two legacies. Recognising the immense potential in joining forces, they saw an opportunity to create a company that could offer end-to-end solutions—one that leverages the precision of road construction and asphalt production alongside the robust, technical know-how of contract mining and civil works. BW Mining is not merely a merger of assets but also a synergistic integration where the strengths of each entity feed into the other, resulting in an organisation greater than the sum of its parts.
The vision behind BW Mining is clear: to pool resources, expertise and innovation in order to address the growing demands of Zimbabwe’s infrastructure and mining industries. By combining Bitumen World’s proven capability in civil engineering with R. Davis & Co.’s extensive experience in mining and environmental s olutions, BW Mining is uniquely equipped to manage projects of all scales—from the rehabilitation of road networks to the development of new mining infrastructures and urban utilities.
The operational synergy is evident in how the two companies complement each other. Bitumen World brings to the table a rich legacy in asphalt surfacing, pavement layer construction, and the production of high-quality pre-cast units. Its investment in concrete works further strengthens its ability to deliver fully integrated infrastructure solutions, ensuring that key structural components like bridges, reservoirs, and reinforced foundations are constructed with the highest standards of durability and performance.
These capabilities are critical in creating durable and reliable roadways and infrastructure that serve as the lifelines of modern cities. On the other hand, R. Davis & Co. has consistently demonstrated its prowess in contract mining, drill-and-blast operations, load-and-haul logistics, and site rehabilitation.
Bitumen World (Pvt) Ltd
Civil Engineering Contracts
BW Mining is also supported by an extensive fleet of construction machinery, including bulldozers, excavators, tippers, graders, rollers, and water trucks. This fleet ensures that large-scale earthworks, civil projects, and mining operations are executed with efficiency and precision.
Together, these competencies form the backbone of BW Mining’s operations. The newly formed entity is now better positioned to undertake large-scale projects with enhanced efficiency and effectiveness. Projects that once seemed daunting now fall within reach, as BW Mining leverages its combined fleet of specialised machinery and the collective experience of its workforce.
This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to advanced technical training, integrity testing, and skills enhancement, ensuring that every member of the team is equipped to meet the challenges of modern infrastructure projects. Through initiatives such as Dover Testing and a comprehensive suite of specialised courses, BW Mining is cultivating a workforce that is both knowledgeable and agile—ready to innovate and adapt in an industry that is constantly evolving.
Together, these competencies form the backbone of BW Mining’s operations. The newly formed entity is now better positioned to undertake large-scale projects with enhanced efficiency and effectiveness. Projects that once seemed daunting now fall within reach, as BW Mining leverages its combined fleet of specialised machinery and the collective experience of its workforce.
The company’s commitment to innovation is further underscored by its adherence to international standards, as evidenced by its multiple ISO certifications—demonstrating a steadfast dedication to quality management, environmental stewardship, and occupational health and safety.
A particularly striking aspect of BW Mining is its investment in human capital. The company’s Asset Management Centre (AMC), located in Marula, stands as a testament to its commitment to training and workforce development.
Far from being mere buzzwords at BW Mining, corporate governance and sustainability are cornerstones of its operational philosophy. The company’s governance framework is built on principles of transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices.
By maintaining strict compliance with mining laws, enforcing rigorous risk management protocols, and upholding environmental standards, BW Mining not only protects its reputation but also ensures that its projects contribute positively to the communities they serve. Stakeholder engagement is a key priority, with open lines of communication and a commitment to long-term relationships that foster trust and mutual growth.
As BW Mining looks to the future, it is filled with promise. The company is already setting its sights beyond Zimbabwe, with expansion plans targeting regional markets in Mozambique and Zambia. These moves are part of a broader strategy to establish BW Mining as a leading force in Southern Africa—a company that is as committed to local excellence as it is to regional growth. Upcoming projects, ranging from major highway rehabilitations to cutting-edge mining infrastructure developments, are poised to display the transformative power of this new partnership. Under the leadership of CEO Andre Zietsman and Mining Division Head Mike Davis, BW Mining is not only redefining operational efficiency but also setting new benchmarks for innovation and sustainability in the industry.
The creation of BW Mining is a bold, forward-thinking response to the evolving demands of Zimbabwe’s infrastructure and mining sectors. It represents a harmonious fusion of two storied companies—each with its own rich heritage and proven track record— united by a common vision for excellence.
This partnership is not about simply merging assets; it is about forging a new frontier where collaboration and innovation drive the future of construction, mining, and civil engineering. As the company continues to expand its capabilities and reach, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved when industry leaders come together with a shared purpose. For clients, partners and stakeholders, BW Mining offers a promise of enhanced service delivery, unmatched expertise and a commitment to building a legacy of excellence. The story of BW Mining is one of transformation—a journey that begins with the merging of two giants and culminates in a force that is set to shape the future of infrastructure and mining in Zimbabwe and beyond. It is a story of vision, of collaboration and of the relentless pursuit of progress, and it is a story that is only just beginning.
BROWN ENGINEERING'S EXPERTISE
POWERS EFOODS' NEW HARARE HUB
The new hub in the heart of Pomona Industrial Park, Harare, is a bold statement in collaborative industrial infrastructure, housing both an FMCG manufacturing powerhouse, Efoods, and a hardware distributor, Wembley Tools, under one roof. This innovative space, powered by steel structure installation giants Brown Engineering Group reflects a progressive approach to industrial development, where contrasting businesses can thrive side by side. Brown Engineering are on a roll working and completing a lot of structural projects in all commercial areas, and of various sizes around Zimbabwe. An interview with the site manager and the companies’ two directors, sheds light on the project, highlighting the strategic choices made.
Working the foundation:
The foundation of the Efoods and Wembley Tools building was a complex undertaking, dictated by the site's challenging soil conditions. The site presented varying soil conditions and sat atop a large mass of sloped granitic bedrock. This necessitated a pile foundation of 120 support beams placed at varying heights, ranging from 0.5 meters to 12 meters, to anchor the structure."We needed to build the structure from the smallest side moving out because our crane would be built and struggle to get out. The process was completed without significant challenges," says Joshua Smallbones, site manager.
Text by Martin Chemhere Images by Caast Media Group
Managing Director of Wembley Tools, Guy Devenish, elaborates on the hybrid foundation approach: "To address these soil challenges, we implemented a hybrid foundation approach. Where the bedrock was relatively shallow, we used reinforced concrete base pads. For areas where bedrock was deep, exceeding 10 meters, we opted for specialist piled foundations, avoiding the costly deep excavation.”
The perimeter walls are supported by reinforced concrete suspended ground beams, bridging between the foundations and over the expansive soil, mitigating the risk of cracking and ensuring stability. Additionally, 5,000 tonnes of iron stone were laid in three layers within the building's footprint to compensate for the clay soil's porosity.
Structural Integrity and Design:
The building's superstructure, as is the standard with all Brown Engineering Group’s work, is a structural steel frame, chosen for its adaptability. "A structural steel frame was selected for its flexibility to accommodate any potential foundation movement and its ease of construction," the site manager states. He adds, "A portion of the expansive soils at the surface was replaced with imported inert granular material to minimize issues related to expansive soils. Over this, a cast oversite ground floor slab was poured, joined to accommodate concrete shrinkage and articulated for potential long-term ground movement."
The building's design also accommodated the natural slope of the site. The building was designed with a stepped layout to accommodate the natural fall of the site. The external pavement and surface were constructed using interlocking blocks on layered backfill, creating a durable surface for vehicular traffic and ensuring sealed pavement around the building for water infiltration protection and improved site drainage.
Technological Integration and Safety:
Efoods’ Managing Director, Grant Evans, explains how modern technology was integrated to ensure efficiency and sustainability. "While the electrical infrastructure is standardized; we installed a Biobox system to manage the black and grey water and waste, processing it into an environmentally acceptable product," Evans notes. "This was essential as there's no waterborne sewerage available. Coupled with a borehole, we have a water filtration system with UV treatment in place."
Safety was paramount in the building's design. Given the regular seismic occurrences from a nearby quarry, a smart wireless security system was implemented. This system provides remote access control, fire and flood detection, and video surveillance, enabling real-time monitoring of production, warehousing, and key external zones.
Operational efficiency and hygiene:
The integration of the production plant within the building was carefully managed. Efoods' processing area features a factory floor engineered for water flow during daily washdowns, leading to a separator. A specialized, high-build, industrial epoxy from Emacs,
suitable for food production, was used. Walls, floors, and even the roof height were ISO-panelled, and Lumen-specific lighting was installed, aligning with the planned FSSC22000 certification. Apex roof ventilation, with mesh and covers, prevents dust, insects, and other unwanted particles from entering, crucial for food manufacturing.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency:
Energy efficiency was a key consideration. ISO-panelling ensures temperature and dust control, meeting insulation requirements for the production floor. Due to high electricity usage, a 315kVA kVA substation was built on-site. Solar is currently not a viable option.
Architectural Vision and Design:
The building's architectural vision reflects the company's brand and values. The overview projects an Aesthetic pragmatics, balancing industrial ruggedness with clean, contemporary finishes. The aim was for a utilitarian yet visually compelling environment.
Materials were selected for durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness. Cost was a primary consideration. The intent was to be sleek, functional, while achieving low-maintenance, adhering to engineer specifications with a high-efficiency structure blending pointed brickwork, drywalling, steel, aluminum, and glass.
Natural light and ventilation were maximized. Form and function combined with a full glass curtain frontage, creating a modern yet industrial space. The glass is engineered and tinted for light and heat control, given the building's west-facing orientation.
A double-volume entrance area and open-plan working stations promote collaboration. Translucent sheeting in dispatch and receiving areas complements LED lighting.
The production plant's layout optimizes workflow. The entire layout is designed for workflow efficiencies and targeted overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Raw material receiving flows seamlessly into production through dedicated bays and consumption bins.
The production floor maximizes the manufacturing process, with critical control and checkpoints.
Capacity and Expansion:
The new facility significantly increases production capacity. Increased space allows owners to commission new plant and equipment, including mixers, pots, and multi-head filling lines, boosting production capacity to 240 tons.
Enhanced warehouse space with improved shelving and accessibility optimizes storage and handling. The building houses 21 offices, boardrooms, and meeting rooms, totalling 750 square meters of office space. The entire building spans 4,000 square meters, with 3,000 for Efoods and 1,000 for Wembley Tools.
Accessibility and local influence:
The site manager said that accessibility was a key consideration. The planning and structure maximized usage within building bylaws. The 3,000 square meters of paving surrounding the building ensures easy access for staff, suppliers, and customers.
Local architectural influence was evident. This foward-thinking functional factory wasdesigned by Titus Muranda of Estetico.The building integrates with the surrounding industrial landscape. It aligns with the look and feel of newly built steel sheds/brick-walled warehouses in Pomona Industrial Park.
Project Management and Community Impact:
The construction project was completed within a two-year timeframe, withno significant delays other than anticipated earthwork challenges.
Besides the great work by the main contractor, Brown Engineering Group, other local contractors and suppliers were involved, contributing to the local economy. BDS managed earthworks and paving, Kilsud Construction oversaw civils, and BCHOD provided multi-disciplinary consultancy engineering. All other offices and electrical work were handled by Zimbabwean-based contractors and suppliers.
Brown Engineering Group’s legacy in the steel infrastructure sector has helped the new building to contribute to Efood's future growth and its role in the community. Efoods aims to be recognized as innovators and market leaders in the FMCG sector. The new purpose-built factory embodies this vision. Pomona Industrial Park, where Brown Engineering Group has a strong footprint of other completed notable projects in the past, offers increasing benefits for commercial and home-use customers. There, superb steelworks will uplift Efoods and Wembley to thrive with enhanced visibility and better-designed spaces. The building’s proximity and accessibility of Harare Drive will benefit the community through improved logistics and route to market.
HOUSING TARGET WITHIN REACH AS CONTRACTORS EMBRACE HI-TEC
METHODS
Zimbabwe is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of constructing one million housing units before the end of 2025, thanks to significant advancements in construction technology and a renewed commitment from both the Government and the private sector.
Zimbabwe Builders Contractors Association (ZBCA) president Dr Tinashe Manzungu said the introduction of hi-tech construction methods has revolutionised the building process, allowing contractors to meet the growing demand for housing more efficiently.
“This year, we are not just meeting targets, we are exceeding them, thanks to modern techniques,” said Dr Manzungu. “The better and modern equipment has drastically reduced construction time and costs, enabling us to deliver quality housing units at an unprecedented pace.”
In addition to technological advancements, the collaboration between the Government and private sector has been pivotal. For instance, the construction of student accommodation units in Bulawayo, Chinhoyi, and Zvishavane is expected to significantly enhance living standards for students.
The contractors enthusiasm is palpable, with many expressing a sense of urgency to capitalise on the current momentum. “The market is ripe for innovation and we are ready to embrace it,” said Manah Buildings construction director, Mr Arthar Mafuya, the ZBCA 2024 contractor of the year.
“With the skills we have developed and the technologies at our disposal, we can tackle the housing backlog head-on.” Nonaly Trading director Mr Nobioth Magwizi said Government has created an environment that is conducive for businesses to thrive. “The collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors have been pivotal in transforming our housing landscape,” said Mr Magwizi.
“Through Government projects, we have gained invaluable experience and resources, enabling us to contribute significantly to this cause. “As we celebrate this achievement, we recognise it as a testament to what can be accomplished when we unite in purpose. “We remain committed to building sustainable and affordable housing solutions for all Zimbabweans and we look forward to continuing this journey together,” said Mr Magwizi.
SAFEGUARDING YOUR FUTURE THROUGH PROPERTY SECURITY
By Martin Chemhere
Property ownership represents a significant investment and a cornerstone of financial security. In Zimbabwe, where economic fluctuations and social dynamics can create unique challenges, prioritizing robust property security is paramount.
Whether it's a residential home, a commercial building, or a piece of land, safeguarding your property requires a multi-layered approach. Physical security remains the first line of defense. Strong perimeter fencing, reinforced gates, and well-lit surroundings deter potential intruders.
Investing in sturdy locks, burglar bars, and security doors adds another layer of protection. Consider installing an alarm system, linked to a reputable security company, for prompt response in case of a break-in. For larger properties, CCTV surveillance can provide valuable monitoring and evidence.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining these physical security measures ensures their continued effectiveness. Beyond physical measures, fostering a sense of community vigilance can significantly enhance security.
Neighborhood watch programs encourage residents to look out for each other's properties and report suspicious activity. Building strong relationships with neighbors and local security personnel creates a collaborative environment that discourages crime. Open communication about security concerns and sharing relevant information can contribute to a safer community.
Insurance plays a crucial role in mitigating the financial impact of property-related incidents. Comprehensive property insurance can cover losses due to theft, fire, or other unforeseen events. Ensure your policy is up-to-date and adequately covers the replacement value of your property and its contents. Regularly review your policy and consult with your insurer to ensure you have appropriate coverage for your specific needs.
Legal documentation is vital for establishing and protecting your property rights. Ensure your title deeds are securely stored and readily accessible. Maintain accurate records of all property-related transactions and payments.
Consulting with a reputable legal professional can provide guidance on property ownership, inheritance, and dispute resolution. Clear and comprehensive legal documentation can help prevent fraudulent activities and protect your property from legal challenges.
Staying informed about current security trends and crime patterns in your area is essential. Local law enforcement agencies and community forums can provide valuable information and advice on crime prevention.
Adopting a proactive approach to security, combining physical measures, community engagement, insurance coverage, and sound legal practices, empowers property owners in Zimbabwe to significantly reduce their risk and safeguard their valuable assets. Protecting your property is not just about securing your present; it's about securing your future.
PROTECTING FINANCIAL AND PROJECT DATA IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
By Martin Chemhere
The Zimbabwean construction sector is embracing digital tools at an accelerating pace. From Building Information Modeling (BIM) to sophisticated project management platforms, data fuels modern construction.
While this digital revolution unlocks significant gains in efficiency and collaboration, it simultaneously exposes the industry to an escalating threat: cyberattacks. Cybersecurity is no longer a secondary consideration; it's a fundamental necessity for safeguarding both financial assets
and sensitive project information. Construction companies in Zimbabwe hold a vast amount of sensitive information, including financial records, client details, architectural plans, structural designs, and proprietary project data.
A cyberattack can compromise this data, leading to severe consequences. Financial data breaches can result in significant monetary losses, including theft of funds, fraudulent invoices, and disruption of cash flow. Loss of sensitive project data can lead to competitive disadvantage, intellectual property
theft, and project delays. Furthermore, reputational damage resulting from a cyberattack can erode client trust and hinder future business opportunities. The nature of cyber threats is constantly evolving, with hackers employing increasingly sophisticated tactics.
Phishing attacks, ransomware, and malware are just some of the methods used to infiltrate construction companies' systems. These attacks can target anything from individual computers to entire networks, potentially crippling operations and
causing widespread disruption. In the Zimbabwean context, where resources may be limited, smaller construction firms can be particularly vulnerable due to a lack of dedicated cybersecurity expertise and infrastructure. Protecting financial and sensitive data requires a multi-faceted approach.
Firstly, construction companies need to invest in robust cybersecurity infrastructure, including firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems. Regularly updating software and patching vulnerabilities is crucial to staying ahead of evolving threats.
Secondly, employee training and awareness are paramount. Educating staff about cybersecurity best practices, such as recognizing phishing emails and avoiding suspicious websites, can significantly reduce the risk of human error leading to a data breach.
Beyond technical measures, establishing clear cybersecurity policies and procedures is essential. These policies should outline data access protocols, password management guidelines, and incident response plans. Regularly backing up data and storing it securely, both on-site and off-site, is crucial for business continuity in the event of a cyberattack.
Furthermore, construction companies should consider cyber insurance to mitigate the financial impact of a data breach.
This type of insurance can help cover the costs of data recovery, legal fees, and regulatory fines. In Zimbabwe's developing digital landscape, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the construction industry is crucial. Industry associations, government agencies, and cybersecurity experts can play a vital role in providing guidance, resources, and training to construction companies.
Taking proactive steps to protect their financial and sensitive data, Zimbabwean construction businesses can safeguard their operations, maintain their competitive edge, and build a more secure and resilient industry.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GEOMATICS PROFESSIONALS
By Martin Chemhere
The Zimbabwe Institute of Geomatics Youth Network (ZIGYN), part of the Zimbabwe Institute of Geomatics, is a dynamic group of geomatics students and young professionals dedicated to facilitating youth-based projects and initiatives.
ZIGYN aims to empower the next generation of surveyors and geospatial experts through networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
A key component of ZIGYN's outreach is its regular webinar series, "Friday Focus: Level Up". These online conferences provide valuable insights into cutting-edge technologies, industry trends, and career development strategies.
The series recently concluded a successful conference, featuring prominent speakers from South Africa.
Nandipha Kunene explored the transformative potential of location intelligence and geospatial data within the insurance industry, while Nozipho Madlala provided a preview of the highly anticipated FIG (International Federation of Surveyors) Conference 2026 in Cape Town (24 to 29 May).
Participants gained valuable knowledge and expanded their professional networks. Earlier on another series had been held on January 24, 2025, with a presentation by David Elegbede, Lead of the FIG Young Surveyors Africa Network.
Elegbede's insightful talk, titled "Building the Future: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities," focused on the crucial role of young surveyors within the FIG. He shared motivational messages for the future of the profession, discussed strategies for overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in the surveying field, highlighted the impact of emerging technologies, and explored diverse career pathways available to young professionals.
The "Friday Focus: Level Up" series is designed to equip young surveyors with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic and evolving geomatics industry. It provides a platform for them to explore cutting-edge technologies, engage in discussions about industry trends, and connect with fellow professionals.
ZIGYN, led by President Letwin Pondo, encourages all young geomatics professionals and students to follow their social media platforms for weekly updates on upcoming topics, speakers, and registration details. Join ZIGYN and be a part of shaping the future of geomatics in Zimbabwe.
