Illegal mining blamed for school collapse as Government cancels licence

THE Government has, with immediate effect, cancelled the operating licence of a gold mining company that was conducting gold leaching near the newly constructed US$600 000 Globe and Phoenix Primary School in Kwekwe. The decision follows widespread concern from stakeholders over unregulated mining activities taking place adjacent to the newly established school premises.

There are fears that such operations could pose a serious threat to the safety of the school, its learners and staff. A classroom block at the original school previously collapsed due to illegal mining activities in the area. The new school comprises seven classroom blocks, an administration block, and an ablution facility, and will also include special amenities to cater for learners with disabilities.

Kwekwe District Development Co-ordinator, Mr Fortunate Mpungu, dismissed reports of illegal mining near the new school.

“There is no illegal mining there. In fact, there was a miner conducting gold leaching nearby, but his licence was cancelled and he will be relocating soon. The Office of the Minister of State is seized with the matter,” he said.

Presidential Special Advisor on Monitoring Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Jorum Gumbo, has urged the Government to swiftly introduce regulations or legislation to curb illicit mining activities, warning that failure to act will continue to endanger communities and damage the environment. Speaking to journalists after touring the new school site recently, Dr Gumbo highlighted that the absence of a clear policy framework governing artisanal and small-scale mining has led to infrastructure damage and disruptions to learning in affected communities.

“I am satisfied with the work that is being done at the new school. The school could be reopened by September this year following collaboration between the Government, the church and other stakeholders involved,” he said.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Government, local communities, and youth on developmental projects, including the construction of schools across the country. The original Globe and Phoenix Primary School was decommissioned in 2023 after its infrastructure was compromised by illegal mining activities taking place beneath and around the premises.

More than 1 300 learners from Globe and Phoenix Primary School have since been learning under tents at Russell Primary School grounds, where they are camped.

This temporary arrangement has created harsh learning conditions, with tents flooding during heavy rains and the host school facing increased water bills, placing significant pressure on already limited resources and facilities.