Minister Calls for Sustainable Mining to Combat Environmental Damage in Midlands
The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Owen Ncube, has raised alarms over the severe environmental damage caused by irresponsible mining activities along the Great Dyke.
Speaking to government officials, Miners, and Shurugwi residents during the Midlands Provincial clean-up campaign, Minister Ncube highlighted the pressing issue of land degradation due to mining.
“Our province has not escaped the challenges of land degradation, desertification, and drought. Irresponsible mining along the mineral-rich Great Dyke has left vast tracts of land scarred with open pits, posing constant threats to people and livestock,” he stated.
He also emphasized that illegal mining activities have destroyed productive land, severely impacting community livelihoods. Minister Ncube called for a united effort involving the government, mining companies, farmers, local communities, and environmental organizations to ensure sustainable land use.
Additionally, he pointed out that pollution from mining has led to the loss of aquatic life in major water bodies.
“My office has directed all district development coordinators to engage mining entities to immediately adopt sustainable mining practices, such as land reclamation, filling open pits, and planting trees,” he said.
Minister Ncube also urged the business community to collaborate with local authorities to maintain clean premises by installing litter containers and establishing waste management committees.