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Remember Deketeke, Herald Correspondent
MINERS have hailed the Government’s gold mobilisation initiative, which aims to increase formal gold deliveries to Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).
The initiative is also designed to reduce the influence of unlicensed gold buyers while empowering miners with knowledge on the benefits of formalising their trade.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando, has highlighted that the Government is pushing to bolster gold deliveries through the mobilisation exercise.
“Through the gold mobilisation programme, we are not only ensuring compliance but also setting the stage for sustainable growth in the mining industry.
“The potential for increased gold deliveries is immense and with continued efforts, we can unlock Zimbabwe’s true gold potential,” he said.
Minister Chitando expressed confidence that the programme, combined with formalisation efforts and infrastructure support, would lead to the mining industry contributing significantly to Zimbabwe’s economic targets.
The broader goal was for the country to reach over 100 tonnes of gold in annual deliveries.
President of the Young Miners for Economic Development, Mr Nyasha Magadhi, said the initiative’s crucial role was to encourage compliance and education within the mining sector.
“The gold mobilisation exercise is important because it reminds miners, especially the non-compliant, about the importance of adhering to regulations.
“It also offers education, encouraging miners to bring their gold to FGR without the fear of penalties.
“This non-punitive approach builds trust and creates a collaborative environment where miners feel supported rather than punished,” ” he said.
The initiative, Mr Magadhi said, would help miners transition to formal operations, thereby curbing illegal trading and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
“We strongly believe that, through this exercise, Zimbabwe can achieve substantial growth in gold deliveries.
“With the cooperation of miners across the country, we are confident that more than 40 tonnes of gold will be delivered to FGR by the end of the year.
Vice Chairman of Miners for Economic Development, Mr Edmund Kucherera, said the formalisation of gold deliveries would not only benefit miners, but also support national economic growth.
“We fully support the government’s gold mobilisation programme and we recognise the importance of formalising gold trade to curb leakages and ensure that all the gold produced within our country is accounted for and contributes to the national economy,” said Mr Kucherera.
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