Govt Strengthens “Polluter Pays” Approach in Mining Sector

 

Zim Now Writer

The government has renewed its commitment to holding mining companies accountable for environmental damage through the “Polluter Pays Principle.”

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said after this week’s Cabinet meeting that work is underway to tighten the legal framework supporting the principle.

He reported that the enforcement of Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024 has been effective, with most provinces recording significant progress in halting alluvial mining activities.

“With alluvial mining now mostly discontinued, government’s priority is the restoration of damaged land,” Muswere said. “Those responsible will bear the full cost of rehabilitation under the ‘Polluter Pays Principle.’ 

"To ensure this, we are developing new regulations and strengthening existing laws. Legislative reforms will be accelerated to guarantee environmental justice and public accountability.”

He added that Matabeleland North, Masvingo, Bulawayo, and Harare provinces did not report any sites requiring rehabilitation.