The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has clarified confusion over General Notice 1 of 2025, stressing that no one has been marginalised and that mine surveyors are simply performing their duties, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Ryan Chigoche
The directive, which requires mining title holders to submit updated claims with survey-grade coordinates, is part of the nationwide rollout of the Mining Cadastre and Information Management System (MCIMS).
The requirement has faced strong opposition from Certified Registered Approved Prospectors (CRAP holders), commonly known as peggers, and other stakeholders who fear it may threaten their operations.
As a result, some mine surveyors have reported facing obstruction while carrying out their mandated duties, placing them at the centre of intense criticism.
Last week, the prospectors petitioned against the General Notice, arguing that the directive is illegal, disruptive, and costly, and could compromise the confidentiality critical to securing mining claims.
Chief Government Mining Engineer (CGME) Michael Munodawafa addressed the backlash at the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) 40th AGM, urging frustrated prospectors to direct their concerns at the regulations, not the professionals enforcing them.
“I would like to touch a bit on Notice 1 of 2025. We have seen many discussions across various platforms where surveyors have been attacked from all sides. But it is not your fault, and it is not anyone’s fault. This is a regulation we are implementing—it’s not something new. So, when you hear our friends opposing you, tell them to go fight the regulations, not me. And feel free to refer them to my office,” he said.
Responding to the petition, Munodawafa emphasised that the concerns raised were familiar and that surveyors are simply fulfilling their responsibilities.
“I have seen on social media that some are calling for a petition. If you examine it carefully and understand our regulations, there is nothing new. Nothing they can hold onto. What we have done is clearly outline roles—this is your job, this is what you do. Do your job, and don’t interfere with anyone else. No one has been marginalised. We are still doing what we are supposed to do,” Munodawafa added.
The controversy highlights the tension between modernisation efforts in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and the concerns of the small-scale mining community.
While the government aims to improve data accuracy and reduce disputes over mining claims, stakeholders are calling for continued dialogue to ensure that regulations are implemented in a way that balances compliance with the practical realities of the industry.
