Enhancing security measures Vubachikwe Mine takes a stand against illegal mining

A  surge  in illegal mining incidents plaguing the Vubachikwe Mine Village and its surroundings in Gwanda, has forced management to fortify security efforts to protect both the mine assets and the local community. Recent months have witnessed a worrisome increase in crime associated with illegal miners, prompting the implementation of robust measures to address this growing concern.

Taking swift action, a new specialised unit of highly trained security personnel was introduced just two weeks ago, with plans to expand its ranks in the near  future. 

This development has instilled a renewed sense of confidence within the community, which had previously been vulnerable to lawlessness following an illegal strike late last year. As a consequence, the Duration Gold Limited-operated Vubachikwe Mine had to temporarily shut down, leading to a reduction in community security services.

Max Ruza, the mine’s security guru, shed light on the situation.

“Due to the scaling down of mine operations, we had to reduce the deployment of security personnel across the mine and the village, as the core business-related risks decreased. 

“However, this inadvertently left many villagers with minimal or no security just as illegal                    miners began encroaching on the area.”

The influx of illegal miners gave rise to escalating violence, which not only affected the miners themselves but also spilled over to the mine workers and residents of the village. 

Consequently, the management recognised the urgent need to bolster security measures.

“We received numerous reports of violence and even fatalities associated with illegal mining activities, albeit beyond our jurisdiction. 

“Nevertheless, these incidents served as a clear indication for us to strengthen security once again, this time by introducing an elite armed unit that will collaborate with experienced security personnel already stationed at the mine. 

“This armed unit will restore and maintain peace and order in Vubachikwe Village,” explained Ruza.

Under the joint leadership of Ruza and his assistant, Musa Amidu, this specialised team has been tasked with establishing tranquillity and harmony, paving the way for the forthcoming implementation of the mine’s Work Out Plan in the third quarter of this year. 

The plan entails resuming mining operations, starting with a resource building phase expected to last approximately six months. Following the successful completion of this phase, full-scale production is anticipated.

These two stages will enable a substantial number of workers, currently on a no work, no pay basis due to the previous violent job action, to return to their jobs.                                                                     

reserve building exercise is concluded.

Reflecting on the impending resumption, Robert Mukondiwa, the mine’s spokesperson, acknowledged the patience and support of stakeholders, essential staff members, mine principals, and other partners who have played a crucial role in facilitating the steady progress towards the implementation of the Work Out Plan.

“A multitude of challenges could have derailed us, but thanks to the unwavering dedication of key staff members, particularly those providing essential services, as well as the support from stakeholders such as the National Social Security Authority (Nssa), Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF), and the ministries of mines and labour at the highest level, we have managed to navigate the obstacles and steer our operations back to the optimal levels necessary to contribute wholeheartedly to the national economy. 

“Our unwavering commitment to serving our people and our nation is what will ensure a return to full-scale production,” expressed Mukondiwa.

“As we approach the finish line and prepare for a resounding comeback, we are grateful for the invaluable assistance from our new committed partners in the banking sector and related industries. 

“Their unwavering support is expected to infuse fresh momentum into the Vubachikwe Mine, which holds great potential to become a world-class mining operation in line with the vision of our investors.”