Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa-Senior Reporter
ENVIRONMENT Patron First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has implored artisanal and small-scale miners to embrace sustainable mining practices, environmental stewardship and responsible resource extraction to safeguard the environment, while contributing meaningfully to national economic development.
The Environment Patron made the call at a highly engaging interactive session with miners at Magaya Mine in Chegutu yesterday, where she led discussions on sustainable mining, health and safety, community development and social life.
The gathering brought together miners, mining and environmental stakeholders, community leaders, and Government officials, who reflected on the severity of environmental challenges associated with mining activities, particularly widespread land degradation, extensive deforestation, deep open pits, and severe river siltation.
Leading by example, Dr Mnangagwa planted a red mahogany tree at the mine, followed by Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo, Zimbabwe Miners Federation president Henrietta Rushwaya, and Magaya Mine chief executive Zweli Lunga.
This initiative contributes to the nationwide tree-planting campaign launched by President Mnangagwa last year, aimed at restoring forest cover, promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing livelihoods, while greening both rural and urban communities.
Zimbabwe is on course to meet its ambitious target of planting 30 million trees this season, with more than 28 million already planted nationwide.
Speaking during the highly subscribed gathering, Dr Mnangagwa, who saluted the immense role being played by small-scale miners in the country, said environmental sustainability and economic growth should go hand in hand.
“Your efforts are helping build our nation and improve livelihoods across the country. As we pursue economic growth and increased mineral production, we must never lose sight of our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment that sustains us all.
“I, therefore, call upon every miner to become a guardian of our environment, championing tree planting, restoring natural habitats and breathing new life into every mined-out area as we pursue these environmental goals,” she said.
The First Lady said small-scale miners play a critical role in Zimbabwe’s economy by creating employment, supporting families, contributing to national mineral production and contributing to development of rural communities.
“We are guided by the vision of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Vision 2030, to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy driven by sustainable and inclusive development. The mining sector has been identified as a key pillar of economic growth, employment creation and national prosperity.
Magaya Mine chief executive Zweli Lunga speaks at First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa’s interactive session with miners in Chegutu.
“However, His Excellency has consistently emphasised that economic development must be balanced with responsible environmental stewardship. Through the National Development Strategies and the Government’s commitment to sustainable resource utilisation,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa urged miners to rehabilitate mined-out areas, close dangerous pits and promote afforestation programmes to preserve ecosystems for future generations.
“The wealth beneath our soil should not come at the expense of the land above it. We are encouraged to mine responsibly, rehabilitate degraded land, protect our forests and water resources, and ensure that future generations inherit a healthy and productive environment,” she said.
“Together, we can demonstrate that mining and environmental conservation are not opposing goals, but complementary pillars for sustainable national development.”
The First Lady also highlighted the importance of health and safety in mining operations, encouraging miners to prioritise safe working conditions and adopt practices that minimise occupational hazards.
“The outreach strategy must remain a priority. Every miner deserves a safe working environment. The environment should not be a source of waste. The environment should not be a source of pollution,” she said.
The First Lady said mining activities must be undertaken in a manner that protects natural resources and promotes community well-being.
A champion of social justice, Dr Mnangagwa further encouraged communities to uphold Ubuntu/Hunhu values and preserve cultural traditions that promote social cohesion and responsible citizenship.
She took a swipe at issues of cohabiting, which end up resulting in children being born without the knowledge of relatives, as per customs and traditions.
She also encouraged miners to prioritise their health by seeking medical attention early in order to avoid cases of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases, or even HIV and AIDS.
Dr Mnangagwa also expressed concern over the growing menace of drug and substance abuse, which she said was affecting families and communities, and sometimes leading to cases of murder, assault and several other vices.
In an interactive and engaging meeting, the First Lady, who addressed various social challenges, asked participants to describe the signs and symptoms of drug use.
The energetic miners shared their experiences and observations, sparking reactions that left the audience amused.
One participant said that a person under the influence of drugs can remain unconscious for hours, saying: “Ane madrugs anogona kusticker kwema hours kana 6 to 7 hours asina kumuka vamwe vachishanda iye asipo.”
Another said drug users may become fearless and even violent: “Ini ndinoona munhu iyeye haatye kana kuuraya munhu kana nebanga chairo anonyepedzera kunge anopenga asi haapenge.
“Anenge akasticker, haterere anenge achitoona sekutoti iye imbimbo chaiyo, mukamutsiura haatsiurike.”
One participant further shared a personal experience, saying: “Ndakatombogara nemunhu akaita 3 days akarara tichida kushanda basa.
“Zvema drugs ngatisiyanei nazvo varume nhau yekuti munhu ada kukuponda haakendenge nokuti achikuona iwewe anokuona sekamunhu kapfupi pfupi asi uri murefu. Anokutota sekuti hauna basa iwe uri munhu ane basa.”
Local headman Mr Cheza thanked the First Lady for her wise counsel, saying most of the issues raised were widespread in their communities.
“There are many cases in the compounds involving people who are cohabiting. When such cases come before the court for judgement, they make our work difficult. As there is no tsvakirai kuno, not even US$20, it becomes difficult for us to adjudicate these matters,” he said.
Stakeholders at the meeting pledged to strengthen collaboration in promoting sustainable mining practices, protecting the environment and enhancing community development programmes in mining areas.
Speaking on responsible mining, Magaya Mine chief executive Mr Zweli Lunga said the sector must embrace responsible and sustainable mining practices that balance development with environmental protection and community well-being.
Mr Lunga said mining should not be viewed in isolation, but as an integral part of society that supports livelihoods across various value chains.
“This is especially important as we commemorate Desertification and Drought Day. Mining must not destroy the land that supports our people.
“Responsible mining means rehabilitating disturbed land, protecting water sources, planting trees, managing waste, and ensuring that mining and environmental stewardship move together,” he said.
Mr Lunga further highlighted the need for safety and the use of protective equipment, saying these measures are essential for safeguarding miners and maintaining productivity.
He said the sector plays a key role in national development and must operate in a structured and inclusive manner.
Mr Lunga also stressed the importance of collaboration and consultation within the sector, saying working together strengthens efficiency and improves outcomes.
“Magaya Mining stands ready to work with Government, EMA, ZMF, traditional leaders, communities, and miners to build this model,” he said.
Zimbabwe Miners Federation president Ms Rushwaya reaffirmed the mining sector’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda through the responsible and sustainable development of the country’s mineral resources.
Zimbabwe Miners Federation president Ms Henrietta Rushwaya plants a tree at an interactive session hosted by the First Lady with miners in Chegutu yesterday. The event focused on environmental stewardship, sustainable mining practices and community development.
“In line with the national aspirations championed by His Excellency the President and reinforced through the advocacy of Her Excellency the First Lady, we must ensure that mining leaves a positive legacy for future generations.
“This means embracing environmental rehabilitation, restoring mined-out areas, protecting our water sources, and actively participating in national tree-planting and ecosystem restoration programmes,” she said.
Ms Rushwaya stressed that safety, health and environmental management must remain at the core of mining operations, emphasising that every life matters.
“We must continue to strengthen safety awareness, adopt best mining practices and ensure that mining activities are conducted in a manner that safeguards both people and the environment,” she said.
Ms Rushwaya commended the First Lady for her unwavering commitment to community development, environmental stewardship, public health and the empowerment of vulnerable groups.
“Your presence among us today is a powerful demonstration of your support for the hardworking men and women who contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s mining sector and the national economy.
“Your dedication to improving livelihoods and promoting sustainable development continues to inspire communities across the country,” she said.
Minister of State for Mashonaland West Province, Marian Chombo, expressed satisfaction with the growing commitment being shown towards miners, particularly in relation to the protection and welfare of mining communities and their families.
The First Lady has emerged as a leading advocate for environmental conservation, both locally and internationally, championing initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and responsible natural resource management.
Her efforts have earned international recognition, including participation at global environmental forums where she has continued to raise Zimbabwe’s profile through advocacy for environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
