eBusiness Weekly
Business Writer
Metallon Corporation says it is taking steps to resume underground shaft operations at its Mazowe Mine Company (MMC) as part of a corporate strategy that will also entail reintroducing shaft mining and extensively rehabilitating mining areas.
In a statement, the company said the step is necessary to ensure that mining is conducted safely, thereby averting loss of life and injury to miners and protecting local communities and the environment.
“Consequently, Mazowe Mine is ending all unsafe near-surface mining in favor of more secure operations,” said the company.
It noted that underground shaft operations will be safer for miners and the community and will also contribute more to the national economy and boost supporting industries.
“This strategic thrust aligns with recent pronouncements by the Government of Zimbabwe, through the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, unequivocally advocating for safe and sustainable mining,” reads the statement.
Metallon said it is aware that these necessary measures to enforce responsible mining have faced resistance from some miners, and such actions prevent MMC’s efforts to rehabilitate mining pits and pave the way for safe mining.
“We note the campaign of misinformation that has targeted the company, meant to discredit the necessary steps we are taking. MMC is cooperating with all parties involved to ensure the success of this transition to safer mining,” the company said.
Mazowe mine was closed in September 2018 due to massive operational challenges.
The mine was placed under administration for a reconstruction order together with another of Metallon Gold’s sister mines, Shamva Mine.
The mine is currently working with care and maintenance staff. Metallon gold production units are How Mine, Shamva Mine, Mazowe Mine, and Redwing Mine, making it the country’s largest gold miner.
The government has often advocated for safe mining and sustainable mining activities. Gold remains among the country’s top foreign currency earners.
