Govt committed to sustainable use of resources
MINISTER of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, has urged miners to embrace sustainable methods of extracting minerals and waste disposal to attain a tranquil biodiverse ecosystem. He said this while addressing the Manicaland multi-stakeholder conference on mineral resources governance organised by Peace Building Capacity Development Foundation (PACDEF)in Mutare on Tuesday.
He said though the province is endowed with an assortment of mineral wealth, the environment on which the mineral wealth is deposited is a delicate finite resource that must be protected.
He said Government is walking the talk on environmental sustainability and sustainable use of natural resources for development.
“Manicaland is blessed with abundant mineral wealth, but our environment is a finite resource as it is a delicate ecosystem and demands our respect and stewardship. The earth from which we extract minerals to what we buy, and the waste we generate have ripple effects to the health of our planet.
“You will agree with me that significant work has been done in putting in place relevant policies for environmental protection. I acknowledge the able leadership of President Mnangagwa for providing the environmental sustainability agenda. Through President Mnangagwa’s astute leadership, Zimbabwe has made remarkable progressive strides towards the empowerment of communities through sustainable use of mineral resources,” he said.
Minister Mugadza implored miners to embrace sustainable mining methods to avoid compromising the environment’s
ability to meet future needs.
“To achieve it, we must adopt comprehensive legislative frameworks with a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of all living things and ecosystems, which means reducing our carbon footprint conserving biodiversity while promoting equitable access to resources,” he said.
Minister Mugadza said the intersection of technological advancement and environmental conservation must be heeded with unwavering dedication.
PACDEF board member, Mrs Farirai Mudiwa said it is important to ensure long-term viability of the industry, and protect interests of communities affected by mining activities by promoting safe and responsible mining practices.
“Zimbabwe has established mining laws and regulations that meet international standards and we should operate within the confines of these laws. The effectiveness of these laws depends on how well they are implemented.
We should see to it that infrastructure development in the form of electricity, water supply and roads are available for everyone in the community,” she said.
Manicaland Miners Association vice-chairman, a Mrs Matimba bemoaned the destructive practices of mining along Odzi River where some miners are pegging claims close to the river contrary to the requirements of the law. “Some people are showing us permits allowing them to mine close to water sources and it is difficult to stop them. These culprits must be stopped from harming the land,” he said.
Environment Management Agency (EMA)’s Mutare District environmental officer, Mrs Odette Chipunza said they are working to curb the scourge of destructive mining methods. “We have been operating under an open door policy, and officers are available to deal with disputes and clear any queries. Artisanal miners should not feel hard done by our monitoring visits as they are part of the mandate to protect the environment.
“Sometimes mines reap very little, and sometimes they have a surge of production belt, and these should also meet the standard taxes and mitigation measures associated with polluter based principles,” she said.
Mrs Chipunza said those found on the wrong side of mining laws will be fined up to Level 14, which attracts a penalty of US$5 000. The indaba ran under the theme: “Strengthening Mineral Resource Governance for Sustainable Development in Manicaland Tackled Topics on the Current State of Mining in The Province Plus Environmental Legislation, Policies, and Standards in Mining Before Audiences Divulged on Their Experiences in The Mining Sector and Available Opportunities”.