Mazowe resumes shaft mining operations

GOLD miner Metallon Corporation says its unit in Mazowe will resume shaft mining operations as part of the subsidiary’s corporate strategy.

The announcement came after years of inactivity and extensive rehabilitation of mining areas that were deemed unsafe.

“Mazowe Mining Company announces steps to resume underground shaft operations as part of a corporate strategy. This will entail reintroducing shaft mining and extensively rehabilitating mining areas,” Metallon said in a recent statement.

“This step is necessary to ensure that mining is conducted safely, thereby averting loss of life and injury to miners and protecting local communities and the environment.

“Consequently, Mazowe Mining Company is ending all unsafe near-surface mining in favour of more secure operations. Underground shaft operations will be safer for miners and the community. It will also contribute more to the national fiscus and boost supporting industries.”

The move was driven by the government’s pronouncement advocating for safe and sustainable mining, and Mazowe Mining Company is cooperating with all parties involved to ensure the success of this transition to safer mining.

“This strategic thrust aligns with recent pronouncements by the government of Zimbabwe, through the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, unequivocally advocating for safe and sustainable mining,” Metallon said.

“We are aware that these necessary measures to enforce responsible mining have faced resistance from some miners. Such actions prevent Mazowe Mining Company’s efforts to rehabilitate mining pits and pave way for safe mining. We note the campaign of misinformation that has targeted the company, meant to discredit the necessary steps we are taking.”

Metallon said Mazowe Mining Company was co-operating with all parties involved to ensure the success of the transition to safe mining.

“Together, we aim to set a benchmark for responsible mining, fostering a secure and sustainable future for all stakeholders,” Metallon added.

Available gold mining statistics show that Mazowe Mining Company used to produce thousands of ounces of gold annually before operations were suspended due to safety concerns and debt.