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DURATION Gold has described the recent invasion at its Vubachikwe Mine in Gwanda as deeply worrying, but says the company is firmly seized with resolving the crisis through legal and stakeholder-driven interventions.
Speaking to this publication, Duration Gold spokesperson Mr Robert Mukondiwa said more than 200 youths, allegedly misled by external forces, unlawfully entered the mine premises in what he termed a reckless and short-sighted action that threatens both livelihoods and long-term investment prospects.
“We are extremely concerned by what has transpired at Vubachikwe Mine,” Mukondiwa said. “However, this is not a situation we are approaching emotionally or haphazardly. We are dealing with it decisively, lawfully and strategically.”
Mukondiwa noted that the company’s legal team is already working around the clock, while engagements are underway with relevant authorities, traditional leaders and other key stakeholders to restore order at the mine.
“These interventions are expert-led and measured,” he said.
“We are confident that through due process and structured engagement, this invasion will be brought to its knees.”
He added that while many of those involved are young people, they appear to have been misled into believing the illegal activity would be tolerated.
“Unfortunately, such misinformation preys on vulnerable youths and exposes them to serious legal and financial consequences,” Mukondiwa said.
Duration Gold also revealed that the invasion has temporarily scuppered a massive investment that was on the brink of being rolled out at the mine.
Mukondiwa said the planned capital injection would have boosted production, employment and downstream economic activity in Gwanda and beyond.
“This kind of lawlessness can dent confidence and scare away potential investment into the country,” he said.
“That is precisely why we are working tirelessly to resolve this matter swiftly and with as little unnecessary attention as possible. Once the invaders are dealt with, the investment programme will proceed.”
With gold prices currently at an all-time high on the global market, Mukondiwa acknowledged that heightened interest in gold has fuelled illegal activities across the sector. However, he warned that theft of ore would not be tolerated.
“We are quantifying losses and we do not rule out punitive financial action against individuals who stole ore,” he said.
“Duration Gold will deal ruthlessly with theft. There must be consequences.”
Mukondiwa reaffirmed the company’s commitment to responsible mining, legal compliance and safeguarding Zimbabwe’s attractiveness as an investment destination.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter