Chronicle EditorVusumuzi Dube, Deputy Radar Editor
A mining company based in Filabusi has launched an innovative scheme to transform an informal mining settlement within its licensed area, bringing its operations into the formal sector and integrating small-scale miners into its activities.
The initiative began last Monday when Kavango Zimbabwe, instead of evicting the illegal small-scale miners working within their Hillside mine in the Amazon Area of Filabusi, decided to undertake the construction of a formal settlement to resettle them.
The company will not only provide essential services, including housing, water, and electricity, to the community of informal miners but has also granted the miners one of their mining claims. Here, they will be permitted to operate under stringent safety regulations and the company’s supervision.
The move has been met with enthusiasm from the local community, as it offers a route to sustainable livelihoods while tackling the problems associated with illegal mining.
“We believe that by providing infrastructure and support, Kavango is taking proactive steps to integrate the small-scale miners into the formal economy, which could lead to improved safety, increased productivity, and overall community welfare. Don’t forget that these people established this illegal settlement close to 10 years back when there was a gold rush in the area.
“They have been a headache in the community as they would steal from us and terrorise us, but now that they are getting these amenities and Kavango is also saying it will assist them in their mining endeavours, we believe there will be a change for the better,” said Jabulani Nkomo, the village head of the area.
In an interview with Saturday Chronicle, Kavango Resources chief executive officer, Ben Turney, said that by formalising the operations of these small-scale miners, they aim to create a safer and more regulated environment for gold mining while fostering community development. He said this arrangement not only legitimises their mining activities but also ensures that safety standards are upheld, thereby reducing the risks associated with unregulated mining practices.
“As you might know, these miners settled here when there was a gold rush in the area. When Kavango took over the mine, we felt that instead of chasing them away, which in itself would likely see their illegal activities escalating, we should consider this initiative.
“The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to collaborate with local miners rather than displacing them.
“This innovative approach could serve as a model for other mining companies facing similar challenges, demonstrating that it is possible to balance economic interests with community needs,” said Turney.
He further said that as the settlement takes shape, both Kavango Zimbabwe and the small-scale miners anticipate a partnership that will not only improve their operations but also foster a more promising future for the Filabusi community.
Online Reporter