Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoral Falls Reporter
THE Government is ramping up efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) while implementing key initiatives to maximise the gold sector’s contribution to the economy.
Speaking at the Annual Mining Conference in Victoria Falls on Thursday, the Permanent Secretary for Mines and Mining Development, Mr Pfungwa Kunaka, represented by the Acting Chief Director of Mining Development, Engineer Leon Godza said the Government rcognises the pivotal role of gold in Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development, particularly amid record-high global prices.
He said the Government is firmly committed to formalising the ASM sector to unlock its full potential.
“This formalisation drive aims to enhance productivity through structured mining practices, ensure fair and transparent pricing, improve safety standards which are often lacking in informal operations, and promote environmentally responsible mining. The ultimate goal, is to bring more gold into the formal economy, boosting national reserves and revenue,” said Mr Kunaka.
He said there are ongoing initiatives to increase gold and mineral production which include the clearing of backlog the in mining title issuance, implementation of the CADASTRE system, awareness programs on safer and more efficient mining methods as well as continuous engagements with Fidelity Gold Refinery to facilitate access to formal markets and fair pricing.
Furthermore, Mr Kunanka said they are working on exploring sustainable financing models to enable the acquisition of appropriate and safer mining equipment and technologies.
He said the Government is also emphasising the importance of the proper rehabilitation of mined-out areas to restore land productivity and minimise long-term environmental damage.
Mr Kunaka said the persistent challenge of gold smuggling and illicit financial flows continues to undermine the formal economy and deprives the nation of significant revenue.
“The Government is intensifying its efforts to combat this illicit activity through a multi-pronged approach. This includes responsible mining audit and gold mobilisation exercises, strengthening monitoring and surveillance at border posts and within mining areas.
“We are also enhancing collaboration and information sharing between law enforcement agencies such as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA); and implementing stricter penalties for those involved in smuggling,” said Mr Kunaka
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