Jena Mines
Jena Mines, an operational underground mine situated in the scenic Silobela region of Zimbabwe within the Bubi/Bulawayan Greenstone Belt, encapsulates a rich mining history dating back to 1898. Over the years, the mine has evolved, and its historical production, initially on a high-grade low volume basis from various shallow vertical shafts, has contributed to the mining legacy of the region.
The Jena Mines deposit is characterized by narrow veins, ranging between 2-5m, with occasional wider pods of up to 20m. The primary mining method employed is underhand/overhand open stope benching, complemented by limited breast-stoping techniques. This nuanced approach reflects the mine’s commitment to efficient extraction while preserving the geological integrity of the deposit.
As Jena Mines looks towards the future, a two-year drilled reserve is currently identified in the existing underground workings. To unlock the full potential of this resource, a robust exploration and development program is planned. This initiative is expected to not only ramp up production to 30kg of gold per month in the short term but also extend the mine’s life to five years.