Gweru, originally known as Gwelo, is a city in central Zimbabwe, near the geographical centre of the country. It is on the centre of Midlands Province.
Unki represents one of the largest platinum reserves in Zimbabwe having estimated reserves of 34 million oz of platinum. The mine produces around 6 000oz of platinum annually.
Unki mine is a mechanised, trackless, bord-and-pillar underground operation. Minimal development is required to prepare for mining. Development is often on-reef and comprises roadways for ore transport and travelling ways for mine personnel. Excavation of roadways is combined with ore production. Mined-out stopes serve as transport routes. Mobile mechanised mining equipment is used at Unki Mine. A twin-decline shaft system provides access to underground workings for employees and material, as well as ore conveyance. Both shafts are now 2 822m from the portal on the surface. Currently, there are 17 established mining sections. The equipped sections have strike belts for transferring ore directly to the main incline shaft conveyor.
