The Government of Zimbabwe will investigate mining syndicates defying a ban on riverbed mining, but operations on some rivers deemed to have capacity to sustain activities will be allowed with approval.
Cabinet last September announced a ban on riverbed mining and mining in national parks, but malcontents in the small scale mining sector have continued operating clandestinely. Government said operations on rivers such as Angwa and Save, which had capacity to sustain riverbed mining, could be sanctioned after strict review and approval of working plans.
Ministry of Mines and Mining Development Permanent Secretary, Mr Onesimo Moyo, said there had not been a change to last year’s Cabinet directive and cases of defiance would be investigated. According to Mr. Moyo, there are rivers such as Save and Angwa which can sustain riverbed mining. However, he further clarifies that before this is done. those who want to mine should present their pilot plan to Government for approval so that it can be assessed if their activities are suitable for the river.
The minister also made it clear that there is no change to the Cabinet directive that bans riverbed mining. If there is anyone still involved, the ministry will investigate such cases of miners who are still doing what was banned and appropriate action will be taken.
Government policy was clear that mineral exploitation should be done in an environmentally friendly manner. In the case of national parks, the reasoning was motivated by the need to preserve the country’s wildlife — which is key to the country’s tourism revival strategy.
While others heeded the Government’s call, a number of miners continue operating in flagrant disregard of the Cabinet directive. Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu recently told Parliament that Government arms had moved in to stop operations.