Valterra Platinum–owned Unki Mine in Shurugwi has reported an 8% year-on-year decline in total platinum group metals (PGM) production for the third quarter of 2025, according to the company’s latest operational update, Mines and Minerals Resources can report.
The mine produced 57,500 ounces of PGMs in Q3 2025, down from 62,500 ounces in the same period last year. The company attributed the decrease primarily to an expected lower ore grade in the current mining area — a common challenge in the natural lifecycle of a mining operation.
Production figures outlined in the report show a broad-based decline across all major metals. This was underpinned by a 5% reduction in ore milled, which dropped to 653,000 tonnes from 687,000 tonnes in Q3 2024. Additionally, the crucial 4E built-up head grade — representing the combined concentration of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold — slipped marginally by 1% to 3.28 grams per tonne.
A detailed breakdown of production highlights the following declines:
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Platinum (Pt): Output fell by 5% to 26,600 ounces.
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Palladium (Pd): Dropped sharply by 10% to 21,700 ounces.
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Rhodium (Rh): Declined by 10% to 2,500 ounces.
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Other PGMs: Production decreased by 8% to 6,700 ounces.
Despite the weaker quarterly output, Unki Mine continues to be recognized for its operational stability and efficiency. The company emphasized that the challenges were geological in nature — resulting from ore-body variability — rather than due to operational inefficiencies or external disruptions. This contrasts with several PGM operations in South Africa that have recently faced difficulties such as load-shedding and community unrest.
As a key asset within the Valterra Platinum portfolio and a major contributor to Zimbabwe’s foreign exchange earnings, Unki’s consistent performance remains vital. The mine’s ability to adapt to geological changes reflects strong management foresight and technical planning.
This operational resilience is especially important as the global PGM market adjusts to evolving demand patterns — particularly the long-term shift toward electric vehicles (EVs), which is reshaping the traditional autocatalyst sector.
Ultimately, Unki Mine’s output continues to play a pivotal role in anchoring Zimbabwe’s mining industry, reinforcing the country’s position as a significant global player in the platinum market.
By Nyasha Sungiso