Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in BULAWAYO
A MINING title is not a licence to plunder and desecrate the environment but rather a privilege and responsibility placed on the holder to contribute to national development in a sustainable manner that will benefit future generations, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
He was speaking at the official opening of the 28th edition of Mine Entra 2025 in Bulawayo yesterday.
His counsel comes at a time when the Government is championing sustainable and responsible mining.
While cognisant of the environmental impact of mining and acknowledging that it is a never-cosmetic exercise, the Government is doubling efforts to balance productivity with environmental protection.
This year’s expo is themed “Beyond Extraction: Sustaining the Future of Mining,” a theme that challenges industry players to move beyond the traditional model of resource exploitation and embrace a future defined by beneficiation.
“To the miners, you are the custodians of our mineral wealth. Handle it with integrity. It is not yours; it is for this country. Exploit it responsibly. Protect it as a national trust, not for personal gain,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Our thrust as the Government is to ensure everyone benefits from the mining sector, including future generations. To the suppliers and service providers, you are the arteries of the mining ecosystem. Your expertise in equipment, logistics, and support keeps this industry alive. To the processors and off-takers, the era of raw mineral exports must give way to beneficiation and value addition. Mining must now drive industrialisation, create jobs, and support downstream sectors,” said VP Chiwenga.
Addressing investors, both local and international, the Vice President said Zimbabwe remains open for business but not for mere extraction. He noted that under the Second Republic, Zimbabwe is seeking mutual partnerships that ensure its mineral riches benefit everyone. VP Chiwenga stated that the Government is modernising regulatory frameworks to align them with global best practices.
“We welcome investors from all corners of the world who share our values of responsibility, transparency, and shared prosperity. We are building a Zimbabwe where mining is not just a source of revenue but a foundation for national renewal and growth.
“The Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, now gazetted, modernises our mining regime. It dovetails with global best practices by enforcing accountability, transparency, and corporate social responsibility.
“It ensures that every investor operates ethically, every project benefits communities, and every operation protects the environment. It will result in mining translating into tangible benefits for communities through the development of schools, clinics, roads, and sustainable livelihoods.
“The Government will implement strict regulations and oversight mechanisms to ensure that corruption within the mining sector is effectively addressed and eradicated,” said VP Chiwenga.
He challenged the responsible authorities and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to put in place mechanisms that enhance the transparency of processes for licensing, monitoring, and enforcing compliance among mining companies.
Minister of Mines and Mining Development Winston Chitando said the mining sector is growing and is poised to play a key role in the economy. “There is no place, and there would be no place, for players who do not follow the ethos of responsible mining,” said Minister Chitando.
“Mining in a responsible manner also involves responsible sourcing. We want to see products being value-added locally and local sourcing. We need responsibility in the entire value chain,” said Minister Chitando.
