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Government should assist small-scale gold miners to acquire equipment to boost output so that they can produce at least 500 grammes per month each, a move that will result in economic growth as well as creation of employment.Gold Miners Association president Morgan Mugawa said Government could start by capacitating at least 2 000 small-scale miners for output to reach one million per year.
“Small-scale miners are capable of producing an average of 500 grammes of gold per month,” he said.
“The sector can achieve more if adequately supported with funding and equipment,” he said.
Mr Mugawa said the registrar general should also send out mobile registration teams to issue artisanal miners with identity documents since many of them do not have papers to regularise their operations. “As an association we really appreciate the initiative that the
Government has taken to recognise the role that artisanal miners play in economic development by decriminalising their operations,” he said.
According to the Zimbabwe Chamber of Mines, gold output increased to 6 800kg as of June 2014 from 3 463kg in the second quarter of this year due to the contribution of small-scale miners. Mr Mugawa said the association was working tirelessly to source funding required to equip its members. “Our association is negotiating with potential financiers such as banks and local investors. We are committed to assisting local miners and the funds we are currently sourcing will definitely go a long way in boosting their operations,” he said.
He said artisanal miners were facing resistance from cartels and some individuals benefiting from the thriving black market after the Government proposed to decriminalise their operations.
“The GMAZ acknowledges that the goal for 100 percent formalisation will not happen overnight,” he said.
Mr Mugawa urged Government to review the Mines and Minerals Act so that it recognises small-scale miners. The Mines and Mineral Act does not recognise the small-scale miners who pay the same fees as large-scale miners,” he said. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter