President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on mining companies to prioritise environmental protection and comply with local regulations as they extract minerals.
He made these remarks while officially opening the 27th edition of the Mining, Engineering, and Transport (Mine Entra) Expo in Bulawayo on Thursday. The event is themed “Unearthing Success: The Mining Value Chains, Innovation and Industrialisation Nexus.”
Mnangagwa emphasised the importance of developing cleaner, more environmentally friendly solutions throughout the mining value chain, urging companies to improve the efficiency and reliability of their operations.
“We have a duty to protect our environment for both present and future generations. Mining companies must strictly adhere to environmental regulations while maintaining their social licence to operate,” Mnangagwa said.
He further encouraged the industry to focus on energy and water conservation, while minimising emissions and waste.
“I urge mining companies to prudently use energy and water, reduce emissions, and minimize waste generation,” he added.
The president praised companies that have invested in renewable energy, particularly solar, as a significant step toward reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
He also called on mining players to invest in projects that boost production and benefit local communities by addressing infrastructure, education, and healthcare needs.
“I exhort those in leadership positions, including in the political sphere and line ministries, to prioritise the people and act in the national interest. Our God-given mineral resources must benefit all Zimbabweans,” Mnangagwa said.
However, communities living near Chinese mining operations have consistently criticised them for environmental degradation, lack of transparency, and potential non-compliance with local regulations while the government has been accused of turning a blind eye to these transgressions.
