Kavango Resources has launched an ambitious project to transform an informal mining settlement in Filabusi into a regulated, productive, and sustainable operation, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Operating in the Hillside Mine area within Filabusi’s mineral-rich Amazon Belt, Kavango has opted for integration over eviction—choosing to resettle rather than remove hundreds of informal small-scale miners who have operated there illegally for nearly a decade. The initiative, which began last week, marks a rare and progressive shift in the relationship between formal mining companies and artisanal miners.
Rather than drive the miners off the land, Kavango is building a formal settlement complete with housing, water, and electricity infrastructure. In a first-of-its-kind move, the company has also allocated one of its mining claims to the small-scale miners. Under strict safety guidelines and company oversight, the miners will now operate legally and with technical support—paving a path toward formalisation.
“This is a transformation we never expected,” said Jabulani Nkomo, the local village head. “For years, this community was plagued by the chaos and crime brought by illegal mining. But now, with proper amenities and structured mining support, there’s hope for peace and progress.”
Kavango Resources CEO Ben Turney said the decision to formalise the miners was rooted in sustainability and social responsibility. “When we took over Hillside, we realised that evicting the miners would only push illegal activities elsewhere. Instead, we saw an opportunity to create a safer, more organised system that benefits everyone,” he said.
Turney added that the project ensures small-scale miners not only gain legal ground but also access best practices in safety and compliance—significantly reducing the hazards associated with unregulated mining.
The initiative is also being hailed as a potential model for the wider mining sector. Rather than seeing artisanal miners as adversaries, Kavango’s approach shows how they can be brought into the fold to contribute meaningfully to the formal economy, all while supporting local development.
As construction of the settlement progresses and mining operations begin under new structures, both Kavango and the Filabusi community look forward to a future where partnership replaces conflict, and progress is measured not just in gold output—but in shared prosperity.
