Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Rutendo Nyeve [email protected]
THE Deputy Minister of Defence and Security and Member of the National Assembly for Umzingwane, Brigadier General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlome, has issued a passionate call for harmony between the farming and mining communities in the district following an outcry from livestock farmers over animals trapped
in abandoned mine pits.
Umzingwane district is a significant economic hub, rich both in gold deposits and livestock.
While both sectors are thriving, recent incidents of livestock being trapped in disused mining pits have amplified calls for responsible mining, particularly among small-scale and artisanal miners.
Addressing the escalating tensions, Brig Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome emphasised the need for coexistence and responsible practices.
“As miners we should live in harmony with our fellow villagers,” he said.
“I want to urge especially those responsible for small scale miners, to ensure their mining is done responsibly.”
He acknowledged the patience farmers have shown.
“I think farmers have been too tolerant of our misdeeds. The law enforcement will be requested to intensify arrests, starting with the big gurus of small scale mining,” he said.
As the local MP, he proposed a decisive course of action.
“As the MP I suggest that we as farmers need to call for a meeting involving all the stakeholders especially miners, particularly the big gurus that unleash and control panners, farmers and discuss with no holds barred,” he said.
The call for dialogue comes as the Mines and Minerals Bill was referred back to Parliament.
“If Parliament decides to conduct public consultations then an opportunity may arise for us to air our input,” he said
He said farmers are seeking concrete solutions.
“Our clarion call as Umzingwane livestock farmers we are saying Mining and Agriculture stakeholders must find each other,” he said.
He warned against celebrating the growth of small-scale mining while ignoring its destruction.
“Small scale miners and artisanal miners ought to close their pits or pay a levy towards rehabilitation each time they trade their gold,” he said.
Brig Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome said both sectors are the backbone of the economy.
“Both these sectors are the backbone of our economy, hence they must not be allowed to destroy each other. I believe that the concerned Ministries, viz; Mining, Environment, Agriculture should work together and find a harmonious solution,” he said, adding that law enforcement agencies must do their part in curbing the menace.
