Kwekwe’s Gold Rush Poses Grave Risks Amid Unchecked Mining in Zimbabwe

Kwekwe’s Gold Rush Poses Grave Risks Amid Unchecked Mining in Zimbabwe

Kwekwe, Zimbabwe – Dorothy Moyo lives in constant fear of the ground beneath her feet collapsing due to illegal gold mining in Kwekwe. The 36-year-old, like many in the Globe and Phoenix community, is alarmed by the increasing danger posed by unregulated mining activities.

In May of last year, a classroom at Globe and Phoenix Primary School, where Moyo’s daughter studied, collapsed due to illegal mining underneath. Fourteen children were injured in the incident, which highlighted the severe risks associated with the area’s mining activities. The school was closed permanently, displacing 900 students to nearby facilities.

Kwekwe, situated more than 200 km from Harare, is a significant mining hub in Zimbabwe’s Midlands province, known for its rich gold deposits. The city, home to over 100,000 residents, is affected by a network of tunnels created by thousands of small-scale miners seeking gold. These illegal activities have led to several structural collapses, including houses and livestock losses.

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) has criticized the mining practices, urging for stricter regulations to prevent further incidents. The association emphasized that while mining is crucial for Zimbabwe’s economic goals, it must be conducted responsibly with adequate environmental and community safeguards.

Local authorities, including Kwekwe’s mayor, Albert Musungwa Zinhanga, are working to address the issue. Zinhanga acknowledged the need for updated bylaws to better manage mining activities, particularly in residential areas. However, illegal miners often operate under the protection of politically connected figures, making enforcement challenging.

A recent study by the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) revealed an alarming network of mining tunnels beneath Kwekwe, warning of potential catastrophic collapses. The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory measures to protect the city’s infrastructure and residents from further disaster.

As Kwekwe grapples with these dangers, residents like Moyo remain on edge, fearing for their safety amid the unchecked gold rush.

SOURCE: AL JAZEERA