Zimbabwe: Mining to Boost Economic Growth

THE mining sector, which is expected to grow by 17 percent next year, will anchor the projected five percent economic growth for 2013. According to Finance Minister Tendai Biti the higher production levels of primary commodities had been supported by a strong external demand. He said at the moment, the country was unable to fully exploit benefits of high international prices to boost exports because of low investment into the sector.
However, he said, the expected resumption of production of nickel and asbestos in 2013 and the anticipated recovery of mineral prices with ongoing investment in the sector will see growth rebound to 17,1 percent.
Uganda: Govt Set to Revive Copper Mining

Kasese – The government has unveiled plans to revive copper mining in the Kilembe Mines found in western Uganda which ceased production in early 1982.
According to the Public Relations Officer in the Privatization Unit Mr. Jim Mugunga the government is calling for interested companies to apply for the concession under the Public Private Partnership.
Tanzania: AFDB Ups Tanzania Road Funding by U.S. $100 Million

Dar es Salaam – The African Development Bank (AfDB) has said it is expected to increase fund for roads construction to $650m by the end of this year.
AfDB is in the final stages of processing the financing for the Arusha-Holili/Taveta-Voi Corridor, which at completion will facilitate cross-border trade and support the integration agenda of the East African Community, the bank said last week.
Read more: Tanzania: AFDB Ups Tanzania Road Funding by U.S. $100 Million
Rwanda: MPs Approve Rwf96 Billion Loans for Roads

Parliament has ratified three agreements paving way for government to borrow on concessional terms to the tune of USD 153 million (Rwf96 billion) for the construction of the Rusizi – Karongi road which is part of the greater northern corridor.
Two of the agreements were signed between government, AfDB and Exim Bank of China in respect of credit lines worth USD 40.5 million (Rwf25.4 billion) and USD 113.4 million (Rwf71.2 billion) respectively.
Read more: Rwanda: MPs Approve Rwf96 Billion Loans for Roads