Farai Tarehwa
Bulawayo
Summary
Accomplished mining engineer with over fifteen years of extensive experience in underground and open-pit mining operations, specializing in resource evaluation and management. Proven track record of leading teams to exceed production targets while enhancing safety standards across various projects. Expertise includes developing comprehensive short-, medium-, and long-term production plans, providing technical advisory services to the mining sector, and facilitating value addition in mineral exports. Recognized for exceptional leadership abilities and strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills, dedicated to achieving excellence in all professional endeavors.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Manager
Gold Circus Tanzania
Mbeya, Tanzania
09.2025 - Current
- Implemented strategic initiatives to transform company performance and achieve profitability following closure recommendations.
- Optimized operational workflows to drive efficiency and minimize processing time.
- Spearheaded process improvements, resulting in increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives that improved budget management across departments.
- Mentored team members to foster professional growth and improve overall performance.
- Developed training programs to enhance staff competency and adherence to safety protocols.
Senior Mining Engineer
Gold Circus, Tanzania
Mbeya, Tanzania
11.2024 - 09.2025
- Led design and development of mining projects, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
- Managed cross-functional teams to optimize production processes and improve operational efficiency.
- Developed training programs for junior engineers, fostering skills in mine planning and operational best practices.
- Mentored junior engineers by providing guidance on best practices within the field as well as sharing technical knowledge and expertise.
- Reduced operational costs through the implementation of innovative resource planning strategies and waste minimization techniques.
- Spearheaded feasibility studies and determined profitability of projects by estimating mineral reserves.
Mine Manager
ZIMSONA (BAYHORSE MINE)
Chegutu, Zimbabwe
04.2024 - 11.2024
- Directed team operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards.
- Implemented strategic plans to optimize mining processes and enhance productivity.
- Oversaw budget management, controlling costs while maximizing resource allocation.
- Led cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and operational targets.
Shift Boss
Zimplats, Ngwarati Mine
Ngezi, Zimbabwe
08.2020 - 04.2024
- Enhanced safety standards through implementation of comprehensive safety protocols and training programs.
- Implemented effective equipment utilization strategies and controlled mining operations to significantly boost overall mining efficiency.
- Implemented rigorous maintenance protocols and high-quality ventilation systems to optimize mining equipment performance and reduce operational costs.
- Adapted swiftly to fast-paced settings, maintaining productivity and team collaboration.
Mine Planning Engineer (Statutory Mine Manager)
Damo Resources Zimbabwe (Pitana Mine)
Harare, Zimbabwe
11.2019 - 07.2020
- Implemented strategic measures to reactivate the mine after a temporary suspension of activities.
- Formulated strategic mine plans aimed at enhancing resource extraction processes.
- Conducted geological assessments to inform strategic mining decisions
- Presented comprehensive reports on mine planning outcomes to senior management for decision-making support.
- Performed due diligence on potential acquisition targets, assessing their economic feasibility and geotechnical risks associated with proposed projects.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams for seamless integration of mine plans into overall business strategy.
Quarry Manager
LafargeHolcim – Sternblick Quarry, Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe
04.2019 - 10.2019
- Impressively enforced health and safety management systems, environmental regulations, and industry best practices, leading to a remarkably safe and sustainable quarry operation.
- Significantly reduced quarry costs by implementing cost control measures, optimizing extraction processes, and supervising contracted out operations.
- Incredibly managed talent development, retention, succession planning, and industrial relations issues within the department.
- Achievements/Tasks
Mining Contracts Manager
Sinosteel – ZIMASCO, Zimbabwe
Shurugwi, Zimbabwe
07.2017 - 03.2019
- Negotiated and finalized contracts with suppliers and stakeholders, ensuring compliance with legal standards and organizational policies.
- Managed contract lifecycles, from initiation through execution, ensuring timely renewals and amendments.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate risks associated with contractual obligations.
- Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate smoother negotiations and resolve disputes effectively.
- Exceptionally managed annual budget plans and working cost budgets, leading to a highly efficient and cost-effective mining operation.
- Remarkably improved safety and environmental protection by implementing NOSA integrated system and emergency action plans.
Mine Planning Engineer
Damo Resources Zimbabwe
05.2017 - 07.2017
- Optimized production planning and scheduling, resulting in a highly efficient mining operation across the group's four projects.
- Improved resource estimation and Life of Mine planning, leading to a highly accurate reserve estimation and cost control.
- Ensured compliance with safety, health, and environmental systems, leading to a highly safe and sustainable mining operation.
- Achievements/Tasks
Mine Planning Engineer
Caledonia Mining Corporation, Blanket Gold Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2013 - 05.2014
- Achieved production and development targets by optimizing resources utilization and providing effective monthly reports.
- Significantly improved projects design and planning, capital projects scheduling, and drill and blast design, leading to a highly efficient mining operation.
- Impressively designed and commissioned successful shaft re-deep projects alongside Group Five, resulting in an effective and productive mining operation.
- Achievements/Tasks
Mine Captain
Caledonia Mining Corporation, Blanket Gold Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2012 - 12.2012
Pit Superintendent / Mining Engineer
River Ranch Diamond Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2011 - 01.2012
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure optimal production efficiency and safety compliance.
Government Mining Engineer (Inspector of Mines & Explosives)
Mining Engineering Department - Ministry of Mines and Mining Development - Zimbabwe
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
05.2009 - 01.2011
- Oversaw adherence to mining statutes to foster a safe and sustainable mining environment. Collaborated with regional mining engineer to evaluate and report on mine conditions in the area.
- Conducted inspections to support safe and efficient mining operations. Assisted in investigating mine accidents to identify causes and prevent future incidents.
- Assessed and recommended best practices for small-scale mining to enhance sector growth and sustainability.
- Facilitated mine blasting license issuance while performing thorough preliminary assessments to streamline applicant transition to Full blasting licensing.
- Led technical assessments of ventilation systems to issue exemptions, prioritizing feasibility and occupational safety. Oversaw compliance with safety regulations while managing the exemption approval process. Engaged with cross-functional teams to enhance ventilation system evaluations.
- Coordinated the application and approval of explosives permits, streamlining procedures for purchasing, transporting, and storing hazardous materials.
- Evaluated mineral production metrics and documented findings to enhance mine development strategies.
Assessment and Research Officer (Mining Analyst)
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe
Harare, Zimbabwe
03.2008 - 04.2009
- Spearheaded business development initiatives for mining exports through comprehensive export research.
- Oversaw documentation and reconciliation of mineral export receipts through effective Form CD1 administration.
- Executed comprehensive evaluations of mineral values and pricing strategies to ensure compliance and fair market practices among mining companies.
- Assisted in reviewing and approving sales and toll refining contracts between mining houses and international clients or agents. Facilitated mineral export value addition by coordinating with stakeholders and conducting ongoing research to build connections with external partners.
- Conducted visits to mining houses to identify export challenges and recommend support measures for exporters. Collaborated with stakeholders to develop strategies that address identified constraints.
- Assisted in developing and executing mineral export promotional programs in collaboration with MMCZ and Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.
- Evaluated proposed mining ventures by providing expert advice to the economic research division.
- Executed routine administrative tasks, including analysis of policy matters related to offset swap deals and export modalities.
Education
M.Sc. - Mining Engineering Modules
University of the Witwatersrand
Johannesburg01.2017
Bsc (Hons) - Mining Engineering
University of Zimbabwe
Harare, Zimbabwe01.2007
Skills
- Mine planning and scheduling
- Resource estimation and evaluation
- Operations management
- Cost control and budgeting
- Safety and environmental compliance
- Project management
- Technical software proficiency
- Team Leadership skills
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
Affiliations
Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM)
Certification
- Full Blasting Licence (Blasting Ticket) Licence number 5073
- SAIMM Member (since 01/2014)
- Risk Management in Mining (OHS)
- Safety for Supervisors training, Incident Investigation level 3 for Mining (NOSA)
- First Aid Certificate (Valid)
- Clean Class 4 Driver's Licence
LANGUAGES
English
Shona
Ndebele
Timeline
Operations Manager
Gold Circus Tanzania
09.2025 - Current
Senior Mining Engineer
Gold Circus, Tanzania
11.2024 - 09.2025
Mine Manager
ZIMSONA (BAYHORSE MINE)
04.2024 - 11.2024
Shift Boss
Zimplats, Ngwarati Mine
08.2020 - 04.2024
Mine Planning Engineer (Statutory Mine Manager)
Damo Resources Zimbabwe (Pitana Mine)
11.2019 - 07.2020
Quarry Manager
LafargeHolcim – Sternblick Quarry, Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe
04.2019 - 10.2019
Mining Contracts Manager
Sinosteel – ZIMASCO, Zimbabwe
07.2017 - 03.2019
Mine Planning Engineer
Damo Resources Zimbabwe
05.2017 - 07.2017
Mine Planning Engineer
Caledonia Mining Corporation, Blanket Gold Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2013 - 05.2014
Mine Captain
Caledonia Mining Corporation, Blanket Gold Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2012 - 12.2012
Pit Superintendent / Mining Engineer
River Ranch Diamond Mine, Zimbabwe
01.2011 - 01.2012
Government Mining Engineer (Inspector of Mines & Explosives)
Mining Engineering Department - Ministry of Mines and Mining Development - Zimbabwe
05.2009 - 01.2011
Assessment and Research Officer (Mining Analyst)
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe
03.2008 - 04.2009
Bsc (Hons) - Mining Engineering
University of Zimbabwe
M.Sc. - Mining Engineering Modules
University of the Witwatersrand