The Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Winston Chitando, has revealed alarming findings from the yet-to-be-released Responsible Mining Initiative audit. He warned that non-compliant miners will be shut down in the next audit, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) Small-Scale to Medium-Scale Conference, held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) during the Mine Entra 2024, Minister Chitando disclosed troubling findings from the latest Responsible Mining Initiative audit.
Minister Chitando highlighted significant non-compliance within the sector, including unregistered entities, entities not registered with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), and operations lacking Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
“We will eventually make public the findings of the Responsible Mining Initiative. However, the results from the last audit were disappointing, highlighting issues across the sector, not just in small-scale mining. There were cases of unregistered entities with ZIMRA, entities outside the tax system, and some serious cases of mining operations lacking Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
“When the next Responsible Mining audit is conducted, teams will have clear instructions, if they find entities unregistered with ZIMRA, they will be closed, if they find operations lacking an EIA, they will also be closed,” he said.
Minister Chitando also noted that to enforce responsible mining, amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act would address many of these issues, including giving the Ministry the authority to repossess mines that do not adhere to responsible mining practices.
“To enforce responsible mining, it’s crucial to amend the Act, including provisions to repossess mining titles where violations occur. Responsible mining that adheres to national laws is essential,” he said.
Mining has long been a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy, providing valuable resources, employment, and economic growth. However, the need for responsible mining practices has become increasingly apparent. The Responsible Mining Audit Initiative addresses this need by holding mining companies accountable for their operations, ensuring they benefit the nation and its people.
One of the initiative’s primary benefits is the mitigation of environmental impacts from mining operations. Responsible mining practices improve ecological sustainability by reducing water and air pollution, protecting biodiversity, and minimizing land degradation. This ensures the preservation of natural resources, benefiting local communities and future generations.
The initiative also emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities. Responsible mining companies will implement social programs that contribute to the well-being and development of these communities. Investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the creation of sustainable economic opportunities are expected to improve the quality of life for community members, fostering a stronger bond between mining companies and local residents.
Worker safety is a top priority under the new initiative. By implementing robust occupational health measures and addressing concerns such as tuberculosis, pneumoconiosis, and mercury poisoning, the initiative aims to create a safer working environment for miners. This focus on health and safety not only protects workers but also enhances the overall well-being of their families and communities.
Transparency and good governance are crucial components of the Responsible Mining Audit Initiative. By adhering to these principles, mining companies can build trust with local communities, government authorities, and other stakeholders. This transparency reduces the risk of mineral leakages and ensures that mining benefits are equitably distributed, contributing to a fairer and more just mining sector.
The initiative also promises significant economic benefits. Responsible mining practices will generate tax revenues, foster local procurement, and create employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. These economic gains will have a multiplier effect, leading to the growth of supporting industries and overall economic prosperity in the region.
Adopting responsible mining practices enhances the reputation and competitiveness of Zimbabwean mining companies on both domestic and international fronts. This improved reputation attracts more investment, partnerships, and collaborations with reputable global companies, further strengthening the mining sector’s role in the country’s economic development.
