Rokbak Appoints Machinery Exchange to Drive Zimbabwe’s Infrastructure Growth
Zimbabwe’s infrastructure and mining sectors are booming, demanding robust machinery and experienced service providers to meet the nation’s evolving needs. In a powerful new partnership, Rokbak, a global leader in articulated haulers, has named Machinery Exchange as its exclusive dealer for Zimbabwe.
Machinery Exchange, a trusted name with nearly 70 years of experience in earthmoving equipment, will deliver Rokbak’s top-tier RA30 and RA40 trucks, alongside full-service support. This collaboration promises to boost Zimbabwe’s construction and mining capabilities significantly as these industries hit record growth levels.
Zimbabwe’s Growing Demand for Heavy Equipment
The connection between construction and Zimbabwe runs deep, even in its name – “dzimba dzemabwe” translates to “stone buildings.” The country’s identity is intricately tied to the stone and steel foundations of construction, an industry now expanding faster than ever with massive new projects underway in infrastructure and mining. This growth creates a high demand for heavy-duty vehicles and equipment that can tackle Zimbabwe’s rugged landscape and challenging project demands.
Rokbak’s partnership with Machinery Exchange couldn’t have come at a better time. Machinery Exchange, part of the Industrial Exchange Group (IEG), brings nearly 70 years of experience in earthmoving to this new role. From their Harare headquarters and branches in Bulawayo and Hwange, the company will offer Rokbak’s RA30 and RA40 haulers, high-performing machines renowned for durability and efficiency in rough terrains – a perfect fit for Zimbabwe’s infrastructure ambitions.
“The partnership with Rokbak will help us meet the growing demands of our customers in the mining and construction industry, and further solidify our position as a leading earthmoving equipment supplier in the region,” says Irene Khumalo, IEG Head of Marketing and PR.
Zimbabwe’s Economic Backbone
Mining in Zimbabwe isn’t just a major industry; it’s a multi-billion-dollar powerhouse. The country’s rich natural resources include diamonds, gold, lithium, chrome, and iron ore, creating high demand for reliable, high-capacity machinery.
Since Zimbabwe’s government launched a strategic development blueprint in 2019, the mining industry has grown at a striking pace, with mineral revenues hitting nearly $9.77 billion in 2023—a staggering 261% rise since 2017. This growth underpins both local and international investment in the sector, particularly from China and India, drawn by Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth.
On the infrastructure front, Zimbabwe’s construction sector is similarly poised for expansion. Valued between $3 billion and $4 billion, it’s experiencing tremendous growth, with active projects focused on roads, dams, and even new urban centres. To meet this demand, quality machinery and reliable service networks are crucial, and Rokbak trucks, distributed by Machinery Exchange, are expected to play a pivotal role in fulfilling these needs.
“Mining and infrastructure are the backbone of Zimbabwe,” explains Chetan Samji, IEG Commercial Manager. “The country’s industries are growing domestically and we’re also seeing increased investment from overseas, especially from economic superpowers such as China and India. It means we see positive opportunities for Rokbak trucks in the near term.”
Machinery Exchange’s Commitment to Quality and Customer Care
Machinery Exchange has long been a trusted name in Zimbabwe’s heavy machinery industry, known for its commitment to quality and strong aftersales support. Established in 1954, the company’s extensive experience in earthmoving equipment is further amplified by its affiliation with the Industrial Exchange Group. This backing provides the resources and reach needed to support Zimbabwe’s dynamic growth sectors.
Paul Culliford, Rokbak Regional Sales Manager for EMEA, emphasises the value of working with an established dealer in Zimbabwe: “We’ve been keen to develop our presence in Zimbabwe and foster relationships with customers through an established dealer. Partnering with Machinery Exchange makes perfect sense. It’s a company that shares our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, and benefits from the support of IEG’s extensive expertise and service network.”
Built for Zimbabwe’s Demands
The RA30 and RA40 articulated haulers are designed to tackle demanding projects and rugged terrains, qualities that are paramount in Zimbabwe’s mining and construction industries.
The RA30, a 28-tonne articulated hauler, is designed for durability, with features like high ground clearance and traction control, ideal for rough terrains and steep inclines. The RA40, a 38-tonne powerhouse, is built for larger-scale projects, offering high torque and impressive fuel efficiency.
These trucks are built to handle the rough, often unforgiving terrain of Zimbabwe’s mining sites and construction projects. Their robust design makes them suitable for heavy loads and ensures they can withstand the demanding conditions of Zimbabwe’s booming sectors.
Comprehensive Aftersales Support
One of the significant advantages of this partnership is the extensive aftersales support that Machinery Exchange will offer to Rokbak customers. From routine maintenance to comprehensive servicing, the partnership promises to uphold the high-performance standards Rokbak is known for.
This aftercare is crucial to ensuring the durability and reliability of heavy machinery, especially in Zimbabwe’s challenging operational environments.
Having localised support from a reputable dealer like Machinery Exchange will provide customers with faster access to spare parts, maintenance, and troubleshooting. With branches in key locations across Zimbabwe, Machinery Exchange can meet the needs of customers efficiently, reducing machine downtime and maximising productivity.
The Future of Zimbabwe’s Mining and Construction Sectors
Zimbabwe’s future is shining brighter with each new infrastructure and mining project. With the added capacity of Rokbak’s RA30 and RA40 haulers, Machinery Exchange is ready to support the country’s expanding industries and meet the demands of a rapidly growing economy.
For both local businesses and international investors, the availability of top-tier machinery combined with comprehensive support creates a unique opportunity to capitalise on Zimbabwe’s abundant resources and booming construction market.
The combined expertise of Rokbak and Machinery Exchange sets a high standard for performance and reliability, offering Zimbabwean contractors and miners the tools needed to take on ambitious projects. This partnership looks set to be a game-changer, empowering Zimbabwe to build its infrastructure while supporting a thriving mining industry that’s set to drive economic growth.
Embracing Growth Together
This collaboration between Rokbak and Machinery Exchange is more than a business deal; it’s a significant step toward strengthening Zimbabwe’s economic backbone. As the nation looks to the future, equipped with high-quality machinery and robust service support, it stands ready to make the most of its abundant natural resources and ambitious infrastructure plans.
Together, Rokbak and Machinery Exchange are helping Zimbabwe build a stronger, more resilient future.
