ZMF backs government’s ban on riverbed mining
The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has welcomed the government’s decision to ban alluvial, or riverbed, mining, citing its detrimental effects on the environment and the organization’s efforts to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, ZMF President Ms Henrietta Rushwaya expressed her organization’s support for the government’s move, stating that riverbed mining had a significant negative impact on the country’s ecosystem, thereby undermining ZMF’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mining.
“We are very pleased with this decision. Riverbed mining was hindering our efforts toward sustainable mining due to its adverse effects on the ecosystem,” Rushwaya said.
Earlier this week, authorities ordered an immediate halt to riverbed mining in response to a surge in illegal activities that have heightened the country’s vulnerability to climate change.
The directive, issued by the Cabinet on Tuesday, marks a stronger stance against practices that have severely damaged vital water resources.
Recently, in a bid to promote sustainable and responsible mining within the Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) sector, ZMF developed an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy specifically tailored for Zimbabwe’s ASM industry.
This initiative aligns with the government’s call and international standards to prioritize responsible mining. The measure respects human rights, ensures safe conditions for workers and communities, and minimizes environmental impacts.
ZMF emphasized that it will adopt a multidisciplinary approach to responsible mining, integrating various disciplines in planning, operations, resource marketing, and mine closure in line with international best practices.
“The ZMF is committed to environmental safety. Therefore, issues such as decarbonization, water stewardship, climate action, energy efficiency, and upholding human dignity in the mining industry will be prioritized.
“Although decarbonization is rarely linked to ASM operations, we believe that incorporating solar energy into ASM practices will significantly contribute to the decarbonization agenda,” Rushwaya said.