Garwe Convenes High-Level Meeting to Tackle Illegal Mining in uMzingwane Catchment

Bulawayo – Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe has convened a high-level consultative meeting to address the growing impact of illegal and destructive mining activities in the uMzingwane catchment. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Levi Mayihlome, Deputy Minister of Defence and Member of Parliament, officials from the City of Bulawayo, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, the Environmental Management Agency, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, as well as traditional leaders.

The engagement followed concerns raised by Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart, who warned of the escalating environmental damage caused by riverbed mining. Coltart said irresponsible mining practices were destroying rivers and streams, reducing water inflows into dams during the last rainy season, and damaging critical infrastructure such as pipelines and bridges. He also flagged the risk of chemical contamination in Bulawayo’s water supply dams, raising concerns over public health and water security.

Mayihlome said the crisis extends beyond the city, affecting an estimated 70,000 people in the UMzingwane constituency. He added that traditional leaders, including Chief Sibasa, have reported the destruction of natural ecosystems and cultural heritage sites due to unchecked mining activities. In response, Garwe called for the urgent enforcement of Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024, which prohibits riverbed mining. He directed law enforcement and regulatory bodies, including the ZRP, EMA, and the Ministry of Mines, to act decisively against offenders.

The minister also announced plans for an urgent inter-ministerial meeting involving the Ministries of Local Government, Home Affairs, Agriculture, Environment, and Mines to develop coordinated strategies.

The measures are aimed at:

• Curbing illegal mining activities

• Protecting vital water sources

• Preserving ecosystems and biodiversity

• Safeguarding communities and infrastructure

Garwe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring access to clean and safe water, particularly for vulnerable communities affected by mining-related degradation. Environmental experts say stronger enforcement and coordinated policy action will be critical in addressing the long-term impact of illegal mining in Zimbabwe’s key water catchment areas.

illegal mining Zimbabwe