ZimParks calls for a halt to mining activities in Hwange National Park

By Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has been urged to cancel an application for mining activities in Hwange National Park, specifically targeting the Sinamatella Black Rhino Intensive Protection Zone, and to reject any such applications in the future.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) said the area is a critical habitat for black rhinos, supporting a growing population of this endangered species, which is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES).
“Needless to say, the proposed mining project will significantly increase the risk of species extinction and negatively impact population recovery prospects. Furthermore, it poses a serious threat by exacerbating land degradation, a key concern for ZimParks, which is mandated to ensure that at least 80 per cent of degraded terrestrial, inland water, and other ecosystems are restored by 2030,” said ZimParks.
While substantial progress has been made in reviving wildlife populations across the country, ZimParks warned that introducing mining activities in Hwange National Park would undermine the ecological conditions essential for wildlife survival and reproduction. This, they added, would hinder ongoing efforts to maintain and restore healthy wildlife populations.
“Approving mining in this zone would not only contradict ZimParks’ conservation mandate but also damage Zimbabwe’s reputation as a regional and international leader in sustainable conservation. It is important to note that tourism is a major revenue generator for the country, and our operations rely significantly on the revenue generated through leased concessions. The introduction of mining operations could therefore severely impact our ability to deliver quality experiences for tourists,” ZimParks stated.
The authority highlighted that mining activities are known to cause air, noise, and land pollution, which negatively affect visitor experiences and disrupt wildlife movements, potentially leading to an increase in poaching cases.
ZimParks also emphasised that Sinamatella is home to the Bumbusi Ruins, which hold historical and cultural significance for the Nambya-speaking communities, dating back to the 18th century. Traditional leaders from the region visit the area annually to conduct cultural rituals and rainmaking ceremonies.
“Hwange National Park is home to Africa’s second-largest elephant population, and mining could interfere with groundwater flow, threatening vital water sources relied upon by wildlife. This disruption could exacerbate existing water shortages, leading to increased mortality rates among species and heightened human-wildlife conflict in surrounding communities,” ZimParks added.