Shurugwi Grave Exhumations Spark Outcry as Mining Expansion Looms

Families in Shurugwi are racing against time to identify the remains of their loved ones as 147 graves at the old Peak Mine Cemetery face exhumation to pave the way for expanding gold mining operations in the mineral-rich Boterekwa Hills. The exercise, funded by Chinese-run Chengxi Mine and implemented by Zi-Heritage and Environmental Consultancy, has triggered emotional distress and renewed debate around heritage preservation, environmental impact, and community consultation in Zimbabwe’s mining sector.

Zi-Heritage chief executive officer Takudzwa Pasipanodya confirmed that all legal and traditional procedures have been followed, including consultations with local leadership under Chief Nhema.

“We are exhuming all graves and relocating them to Tongogara Rural District Council Cemetery for those without alternative burial sites. For families with rural homes, we will facilitate the entire reburial process,” said Pasipanodya.

The Peak Mine Cemetery is believed to hold remains of migrant mine workers dating back to the 1940s, many from Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia who came to work in colonial-era mining operations linked to companies such as Zimasco.

However, concerns are mounting over identification challenges and limited awareness of the process among affected families. Seventy-one-year-old Mustafo Bero, whose parents migrated from Malawi in 1940, said the process is deeply unsettling.

“My father died in 1956 and was buried here. Now we are being told to identify graves that have no markings. I can only remember one location,” he said.

Another resident, Richard Zigora of Poshai Village, criticised the communication strategy, saying notices published in The Herald failed to reach rural communities.

“This is a sensitive issue, but many families are unaware. They should have used local communication channels like traditional leaders and ward councillors,” Zigora said.

Environmental experts warn that the situation highlights broader tensions between economic development and community rights.

An official from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), speaking on condition of anonymity, said:

“Grave exhumations linked to mining projects must balance legal compliance with cultural sensitivity. Community engagement is critical to avoid long-term social conflict.”

The Boterekwa Hills, once known for their scenic landscapes, have increasingly been transformed by large-scale mining, raising concerns among environmentalists about land degradation and loss of heritage sites.

Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) has previously stressed that mining projects must adhere to environmental and social impact assessments, ensuring affected communities are adequately consulted and compensated. As exhumations prepare to begin, families continue to gather at district offices seeking clarity, with many fearing their ancestral ties could be permanently disrupted.

Shurugwi grave exhumations