THARISA Plc, the South African miner run by the Pouroulis family, plans to start producing platinum in Zimbabwe within 24 months after acquiring a controlling interest in Karo mine.
While Zimbabwe has the world’s third-biggest reserves of platinum-group metals, development has been stymied by political instability, economic collapse and previous local-ownership rules. Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd., Anglo American Platinum Ltd and Sibanye Stillwater Ltd also have operations in the country.

Tharisa has appointed Bernard Pryor as managing director of Karo Mining Holdings Limited, in which it has a 66.3% stake.

The mining and exploration company said Pryor has over 35 years’ experience in the mining industry, holding senior executive positions across a range of areas, such as project acquisition and development.

He is also experienced in international commercial and general management, having held roles across the globe.