Online Reporter
Milton Mashasha in Matabeleland South
THULI River has transformed from a roaring waterway into a bustling gold rush hotspot, with hundreds of illegal gold panners descending on its banks in a desperate hunt for the precious mineral.
Just months ago, the river was swollen and dangerous. Today, dry patches and islands between Chelesa and Sezhubane are packed with men, women, pensioners and even teenagers digging, sifting and hoping to strike it lucky.
While the glitter of gold is attracting desperate villagers from Wards 11, 12 and 14, traditional leaders and environmental authorities warn that the river is paying a heavy price.
Headman of Sezhubane area, Upson Ndlovu, said the once-pristine river is being scarred by deep pits and unchecked activity.
“People are coming from far and wide. Some are now living along the river while panning illegally. The river has been left in a bad state and the pits are a danger to both people and livestock,” he said.
Ndlovu said lawlessness was increasing as some people hide along the river while fleeing problems elsewhere.
Yet for many panners, survival leaves little room for choice.
“I have no option but to pan,” said Rebokile Sibanda (46) of Sengenzene Village.
“My children need school fees, food, clothes and uniforms. We work in the cold without protective clothing and face many dangers, but we have to survive.”
Elvis Moyo shared a similar story.
“We are trying to get something small to support our families. We wish Government could help us with projects like chicken rearing so we can earn a living legally.”
The gold rush has also attracted elderly villagers burdened by debt.
Maria Tavengwa (68) said she spends her days panning to raise school fees for her grandchildren.
“We are appealing for assistance. We hear some elderly people receive grants elsewhere. We hope such programmes can reach us too,” she said.
Even school leavers have joined the scramble.
David Mpofu (19), Clive Nyathi (18) and Elia Muleya (18) said gold panning keeps them occupied.
“We are unemployed. Instead of drugs and alcohol, we come here and work. It helps us support our parents.”
However, the Matabeleland South Environmental Management Agency (EMA) officer Simon Musasiwa warned that the damage could outlast the gold.
He said riverbank mining causes severe land degradation, pollution, siltation and flooding risks, while chemicals used in gold extraction can poison water, fish, livestock and communities downstream.
“Gold may bring quick cash today, but if we destroy the river, future generations will pay the price,” he warned. “These activities are illegal and must stop.”
