Midands crackdown: Govt takes aim at mining firms ...

Midands crackdown: Govt takes aim at mining firms over environmental damage, poor working conditions

Zim Now Writer

The gloves are off in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, as the government clamps down on mining companies for rampant land degradation and failing to uphold worker welfare standards.

Stakeholders in the mining sector gathered in Gweru this week, with the province’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, issuing a stern warning.

“The era of leaving open pits behind is over,” declared Minister Ncube.

“We will be conducting inspections of all mining entities starting next month to ensure compliance with regulations. It’s come to our attention that some companies are neglecting to pay necessary taxes to local authorities. This will no longer be tolerated. The Environmental Management Agency has been instructed to come down hard on non-compliant firms. Those found in violation risk losing their licences.”

The Minister’s tough stance comes in response to growing concerns about the environmental impact of mining activities in the Midlands. The region’s rich mineral deposits have attracted significant mining operations, but irresponsible practices have left a trail of destruction.

Unreclaimed open pits scar the landscape, and lax environmental controls have led to severe land degradation.

Responding to the Minister’s call to action, Zimbabwe Miners Federation vice president, Marufu Sithole, acknowledged the need for improvement. “The Minister’s message serves as a wake-up call for all miners,” he said.

“We are committed to taking a proactive approach in addressing these challenges. The deplorable working conditions for miners, particularly the lack of proper sanitation facilities, is an issue that demands immediate attention.”

Miners for ED vice chairperson, Florence Mbizo, echoed the commitment to reform. “We appreciate the Minister’s guidance,” she stated.

“Starting immediately, we will hold a series of meetings with our members to ensure adherence to proper mining practices. We are prepared for the Minister’s upcoming visit and confident that we will demonstrate significant progress in rectifying the situation.