Hilmax Engineering, one of Zimbabwe’s leading engineering service providers to the mining industry, has staged a remarkable comeback after facing a serious survival battle last year. For more than a decade, the company has been a reliable partner to major mines in the country, supplying critical engineering solutions. But in February 2024, its future was uncertain when it was placed under corporate rescue. Now, with fresh capital, new ownership, and renewed leadership, Hilmax is not only back in business but also preparing to expand into new mining opportunities.
The rescue process was led by corporate rescue practitioner, Reuben Mukavhi, who was appointed to stabilize the company when it faced collapse. Supported by both creditors and shareholders, the management adopted a bold recovery plan. That plan attracted new investors, restored confidence, and returned Hilmax to stability. At the heart of this revival was Kushi Green Energy Technologies, a subsidiary of Globavel International, which acquired 100% ownership of the firm.
Speaking in an interview with assistant editor, Mthandazo Nyoni, the new managing director of Hilmax, Shephard Kembo, outlined his immediate vision for the company. He said the goal is to restore Hilmax’s place as a trusted and innovative engineering solutions provider not only for Zimbabwe but also for the wider region. According to him, the new focus will shift the company from survival mode to full-scale growth by re-engaging mining clients, stabilizing operations, and adopting smart systems that will improve efficiency.
Kembo explained that his leadership is guided by the mentorship of Hilmax’s executive chairman, John Mkushi, who is widely respected in Zimbabwe’s industrial and mining sectors. Mkushi, who previously served as group chief executive of Shabani Mashava Mines, chairman of the Mining Industry Pension Fund, and the first black president of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, continues to play an instrumental role in shaping the company’s growth strategy. Kembo described his role as translating Mkushi’s vision into practical results with agility, discipline, and entrepreneurial drive.
Looking back at the recovery journey, Kembo emphasized that Hilmax’s turnaround was made possible by stakeholder alignment, structured planning, and decisive leadership. He said the company’s rescue was not just a legal restructuring exercise but a full strategic renewal. Transparency, strong communication, and disciplined execution were key to winning the confidence of creditors and employees. He added that other struggling businesses in Zimbabwe and the region could learn valuable lessons from Hilmax’s experience, especially the importance of making difficult decisions and embracing change.
On the impact of the new ownership structure, Kembo explained that Kushi Green Energy Technologies has brought not only fresh capital but also strategic capacity. As a company with regional industrial experience and long-term investment focus, Kushi Green Energy is committed to revitalizing Hilmax’s operations and expanding its service portfolio. According to him, this ownership provides the stability required to invest in modern equipment, diversify services, and pursue new opportunities in Zimbabwe’s evolving mining sector.
Hilmax now plans to broaden its services beyond its traditional mining partners and target emerging opportunities in the energy and industrial space. With the backing of Globavel International through Kushi Green Energy Technologies, the company is positioning itself as a growth-focused engineering firm capable of supporting Zimbabwe’s industrial revival.
Industry watchers say Hilmax’s recovery sends a strong message that with the right partnerships, strategic leadership, and financial backing, local companies can overcome crises and rebuild stronger. For the mining sector, Hilmax’s revival is particularly significant as it ensures continuity in the supply of engineering solutions at a time when Zimbabwe is looking to grow mining output and attract new investment.
For now, Hilmax is determined to move from recovery to expansion, and its management is confident that the combination of new capital, experienced leadership, and long-term strategy will open doors for the company in new mines and industries across Zimbabwe and beyond.
