adminBlessings Chidakwa in Kadoma
SMALL-SCALE miners have set up a prototype mining shaft to be used as a yardstick in Mashonaland West and beyond.
Spearheaded by the Mvunda Small-Scale Miners National Association, the 40-metre deep shaft at Gio Mine in Muzvezve, Mhondoro-Ngezi District is expected to be used by artisanal miners countrywide as a model of formal mining.
Gio Mine is also expected to increase its employees from the current 50 to 500 as they formalise their mining activities.
Speaking during a media tour last week, Mvunda Small-Scale Miners Association Mr Felix Dube said the mine was a template for all artisanal miners.
“We are advocating for formal mining among small-scale miners across the country and we have decided to lead by example at one of the mines registered in our name,” he said.
“Our major thrust here is that we want to champion for proper mining among artisanal miners. At this mine we are in process of covering all miners under legal, funeral and medical aid cover in case of accidents.”
Mr Dube said the model shaft is awaiting Government approval so that members adopt it. “On completion, we will sink other shafts, one in Karoi and Patchway respectively, but we expect the one at Gio Mine to be an epitome of proper mining.”
He said partnerships were also key in the survival of small-scale miners.
“At this project specifically, we need either funding or a partner who will assist with mining equipment. We need at least $50 000 for the shaft to engage in full mine operations,” he said.
“Funding would also be used to buy headgear costing close to $25 000, sinking a borehole $5 000 and hammer mill with separators.”
In an interview, mine manager Mr Makwambura Materesa was optimistic of the ongoing project.
“In line with Government’s thrust, locals would be accorded first opportunities for employment and we would also seek to improve their livelihoods. There are two local schools which were built on poles and dagga and these would be under our management and this will benefit the surrounding communities.
“We have also pegged two more shafts which we expect to start mining by year end and once Government approves the first project, we will then start sinking these shafts,” he said.
Online Reporter