The government of Zimbabwe has imposed an immediate ban on riverbed mining or alluvial mining due to its detrimental effects on the environment.
During a media briefing following the Cabinet meeting in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said alluvial mining has significantly contributed to water pollution, siltation, and the degradation of river channels, disrupting vital riverine ecosystems. He said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet considered and approved the Report on Alluvial Mining and Rehabilitation of Degraded Rivers, which was presented by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Honourable Dr Anxious Masuka, as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Mining and Environment.
Cabinet noted that, ever since its commencement in 2011 across the country’s rural provinces, large-scale and mechanical alluvial mining or riverbed mining has resulted in water pollution, siltation, and degradation of river channels and disruption of riverine ecosystems. Cabinet directed that riverbed mining be banned with immediate effect.
</blockquote>
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka highlighted that some individuals are engaging in illegal riverbed mining without proper registration.
He also noted that many who do register with the relevant authorities fail to comply with legal regulations during their mining activities. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
We have noted three classes of mining companies those that apply legally and adhere then those that apply but do something different, and then there are the illegal ones who just go to the river.
In banning we need to ensure that courts mete out deterrent penalties and fines; we felt that the fines are not deterrent enough and the experience is that some of the companies saw it is better to pay a fine than rehabilitate. It was felt that this was tantamount to environmental theft.
</blockquote>
Alluvial mining involves extracting valuable minerals and resources from riverbeds, floodplains, and other sedimentary deposits. The term “alluvial” describes materials deposited by water, including sand, gravel, and clay.
In Zimbabwe, this practice is prevalent in gold-mining regions and has led to severe environmental consequences, including the “death” of rivers, water pollution that affects both livestock and aquatic life, and increased siltation in rivers and dams.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The government of Zimbabwe stopped all riverbed mining because it harms the environment. Mining in rivers causes water pollution and damages river ecosystems. Mining should be done legally, but some people are mining in rivers without permission. The government wants stricter penalties for those who do illegal mining. Alluvial mining in Zimbabwe is common in gold-mining areas and has led to severe environmental problems like polluted water, harmed animals, and dirty rivers and dams. No more mining in rivers in Zimbabwe for now.

Zimbabwe Bans Alluvial Mining

Dinson Iron and Steel Company has categorically refuted allegations of work-related deaths at its steel plant located in Manhize, Mvuma, Zimbabwe.
In a statement released on Monday, July 22, the Chinese-owned firm stated that contrary to reports circulating on social media, it has not recorded any fatalities since the inception of the project.
The company said the well-being of its employees, stakeholders, including the local community, and the general public remains its top priority. It said:
<blockquote>
The company wishes to unreservedly express that these unfounded allegations are baseless and intended to cause disinformation.
For the record, our company has not recorded any work-related fatality since the start of the project and for a project of this magnitude; it is a commendable safety record.
In response to the above tweets the government has dispatched several regulatory agencies including NSSA to investigate the allegations and they have all found the aforesaid allegations to be grossly untrue and baseless.
Dinson Iron &amp; Steel would like to assure the public that these claims are entirely unfounded and without merit. 
The organization’s top priority is the well-being of its employees and stakeholders including the community and the general public.
The company has an open-door policy for everyone who may be wishing to understand more about our operations.
Dinson will consider legal action against the peddlers of falsehoods.
</blockquote>
Dinson Iron and Steel Company has invested over US$1 billion into the Manhize steel project.
Once fully operational, the plant is expected to have an annual production capacity of around 2 million metric tonnes of steel.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dinson Iron and Steel Company says there have been no deaths at their steel plant in Zimbabwe, despite rumors on social media. The company cares about the safety of its workers and community. The government investigated and found the claims were false. Dinson has invested a lot of money in the steel project and plans to produce a lot of steel. They are ready to take legal action against anyone spreading lies about them. The company is open to anyone who wants to know more about what they do.

Dinson Denies Claims Of Fatalities At Manhize Steel Plant

Local communities living near Chinese-owned mining operations in Zimbabwe have accused the companies of lacking transparency and accountability in their operations, reported <a href="https://cite.org.zw/communities-lament-challenges-from-chinese-mining-companies/">CITE</a>.
These concerns were raised during a recent meeting organised by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) and the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG).
The event was part of a project titled “Strengthening Extractives and Natural Resources Transparency and Accountability through Community Action and Parliament Oversight (STACAP)”, which aims to empower local communities to monitor mining revenue and hold companies accountable.
A villager from Gwanda in Matabeleland South Province, situated near a lithium mine, claimed that the Chinese company had bypassed the community and instead only engaged with traditional leaders. He said:
<blockquote>
They didn’t talk to the community. It’s like they are working with traditional leaders without us knowing what’s going on.
Even when they offer community benefits, they go through traditional leaders, who seem to be friendly with them, instead of following proper procedures.
This has caused divisions within the community, with some residents refusing to attend meetings organised by local councillors to address mining-related challenges.
</blockquote>
Dickson Munyumbu, a resident of Shurugwi in Midlands Province, criticised the Chinese-owned mining companies for allegedly failing to conduct adequate environmental impact assessments (EIAs) before commencing their operations. He said:
<blockquote>
They hold selective consultations. The law requires consulting nearby communities, but they don’t consider our views.
</blockquote>
Munyumbu also lamented the poor working conditions experienced by employees of the Chinese mining companies. He noted issues such as inadequate housing provided to workers and unacceptably low wages.
Munyumbu further criticised the mining companies for failing to fulfil promised social responsibility initiatives, such as the construction of hospitals that had been pledged to local communities.
Unica Pabwaungana, another resident of Shurugwi, highlighted the significant destruction of natural resources and heritage sites caused by the mining activities in the region.
Khumbulani Maphosa, the coordinator of the Matabeleland Institute for Human Rights (MIHR), condemned the companies’ overall approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR), saying it fell short of community expectations and needs. Said Maphosa:
<blockquote>
These donations of mealie meal and cooking oil feel like bribes to silence criticism. They distract communities from holding them accountable for environmental damage.
</blockquote>
Chinese mining companies have established a substantial presence in Zimbabwe in the wake of the government’s “Look East” policy.
The Look East policy was largely necessitated by the imposition of Western sanctions on Zimbabwe following the land reform programme.
The relationship between China and Zimbabwe has been politically significant, with the Zimbabwean government regarding China as a dependable partner amid the country’s isolation from Western powers.
However, many ordinary Zimbabweans living in mining communities feel that the Chinese companies can disregard Zimbabwean laws and infringe on the human rights of the local population with little fear of accountability.
On 13 July 2024, a Chinese national was filmed torturing Zimbabwean workers at the Makanga Mine in Bindura, Mashonaland Central Province.
The Chinese mine manager then whipped the workers, accusing them of stealing an unspecified amount of diesel from the mine.
In May 2024, a 58-year-old Chinese miner named Cai Yulong allegedly shot and killed a man from Chief Njelele in Gokwe after the victim and his colleague encroached into Cai’s mining claim in Zhombe, Midlands Province. Cai also reportedly injured the victim’s colleague during the incident.
In June, a 51-year-old Chinese national was arraigned before the Gweru Magistrates’ Court on allegations of raping and impregnating a 17-year-old local girl.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Summary:

People living near Chinese-owned mines in Zimbabwe are upset because the mining companies are not being open and honest about their operations. The companies are not talking to the local communities or doing important assessments before mining. They are also not paying their workers enough and not fulfilling promises to help the community. The Chinese companies have been involved in some serious incidents, like torture and violence against Zimbabweans. Many Zimbabweans are worried about the behavior of the Chinese companies and feel that they are not being held accountable for their actions.

Zimbabwean Mining Communities Lament Challenges From Chinese-Owned Companies

The Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) in Bulawayo has launched an ambitious project to expand its Gemstone and Lapidary Workshop into jewellery making.
This initiative aims to empower students and local artisans with advanced skills to design and craft high-quality jewellery, utilizing Zimbabwe’s abundant gemstone resources.
In April, the Mineral Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by donating equipment valued at US$1.1 million for cutting and polishing gemstones to the school.
During a recent tour of the Gemstone and Lapidary Workshop by Bulawayo’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, ZSM Principal Edwin Gwaze announced that the course design for jewellery making has been finalized.
The school is now focused on acquiring the necessary equipment to facilitate the production of jewellery items such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets, among others. Said Gwaze (via <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/zimbabwe-school-of-mines-to-venture-into-jewellery-making/">The Sunday News</a>):
<blockquote>
In the current setup, the students that we are training are taken through an incubation programme.
This programme is meant to equip these students with the skills to be able to start their own cutting and polishing factories.
This group has finished their final examination and we are now starting the incubation programme which is going to run for six months.
</blockquote>
He added:
<blockquote>
We used to have jewellery shops here in Bulawayo so let’s put our heads together, gather resources and make sure we empower young people to value- add and beneficiate raw minerals.
Let’s have equipment for the institution so that when students graduate they would have gone through all the processes.
The major focus was the gemstone sector where we have come up with courses in Gemology and also Gemstone Cutting and Polishing, so the Lapidary Workshop is a perfect fit into Vision 2030 because we are now creating skills that can beneficiate our gemstones.
In the past, we all know that gemstones were being sold in rough form and as a nation, we were losing millions of dollars because we were not value-adding our stones.
When you sell a rough gemstone you are losing more than 10 times what you could get if you were to value-add that stone, so I think this is a welcome development to the nation and the region.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has implemented a range of policies aimed at promoting mineral beneficiation and value addition within the country.
A key initiative has been the introduction of restrictions on the export of unprocessed minerals.
The rationale behind this policy is to stimulate the development of Zimbabwe’s domestic mineral processing capabilities, create employment opportunities, and generate higher-value exports.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe School Of Mines To Venture Into Jewellery Making

There are fears of cyanide poisoning at Upper Ncema Dam due to mining activities at Alice Farm in Umzingwane District, reported <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200027902/fears-over-cyanide-poisoning-at-ncema-dam">NewsDay</a>.
According to the Bulawayo City Council’s latest report, a heap leach pad is set to be constructed at Alice Farm in the Umzingwane District near Upper Ncema Dam.
Heap leach pads facilitate the extraction of precious metals (such as gold, silver, copper, or uranium) from ore through the use of a leaching solvent (e.g., cyanide or acids) which is sprinkled onto the ore heap.
According to the report, the proposed pad increases the risk of accidental spills or leaks into one of Bulawayo’s sources of drinking water. Reads the report:
<blockquote>
The proximity of the proposed pad to the Upper Ncema Dam increases the risk of accidental spills or leaks, which could lead to the contamination of the water body.
Cyanide is highly toxic and poses a serious threat to aquatic life and human health. The potential long-term damage to the ecosystem and the local communities cannot be ignored.
Environmental concerns associated with heap leach facilities revolve primarily around failure to contain process solutions within the heap leach circuit and their potential release onto the receiving surface and subsurface environment, with resultant impacts on the health of people, livestock and ecosystems.
</blockquote>
The report also says the applicant for the heap leach pad bypassed the crucial step of obtaining necessary approvals from relevant authorities, including the Environmental Management Agency. It adds:
<blockquote>
Immediate action is necessary to address this critical issue and ensure the protection of both the dam and the well-being of the people.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fears Of Cyanide Poisoning At Upper Ncema Dam

The government has deployed more than a dozen teams across the country to carry out this year’s first quarter gold mobilisation exercise to boost the mining of the yellow metal which is backing the recently introduced Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency.
This comes after the country recorded a 1,9% drop in gold output in the first quarter of 2024 due to leakages.
Speaking at the first Gold Mobilisation workshop, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Winston Chitando said that the mobilisation teams were tasked with encouraging small-scale miners to formalise their operations and sell their gold through official channels such as Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR). Said Chitando (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200027203/zig-faces-new-threatas-gold-output-plunges">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
For 2024 from January to April, the gold deliveries to FGR (Fidelity Gold Refineries) sit at 8,4 tonnes against a target of 40 tonnes by the end of the year. In 2023 for the months of January to April a total of 8,57 tonnes were delivered, this represents a 1,9% decrease.
Mineral leakages deprive the government of much-needed revenue from taxes and royalties. By working together, we can ensure that every ounce of gold extracted within our borders contributes to the national good.
</blockquote>
Chitando said increased gold production will boost the gold reserves and strengthen the ZiG’s value. He said (via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zimbabwe-to-boost-gold-production-for-new-gold-backed-zig-currency/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
Recently our currency was anchored on gold hence the need to ensure that all gold trade be done through the formal channels and eventually find its way to Fidelity Gold Refinery, our sole gold exporter.
This proactive approach by the ministry demonstrates its commitment to promoting the use of ZiG as a stable and reliable currency backed by tangible assets like gold.
Through these mobilization efforts, the ministry seeks to create a sustainable and robust financial ecosystem that benefits both the government and the citizens of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
The first gold mobilisation exercise will be conducted in all the country’s mining provinces which are Masvingo, Mashonaland East, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Mashonaland Central, Midlands, Manicaland and Mashonaland West.
Chitando also revealed that in the first four months of 2024, large-scale miners delivered 4,3 tonnes of gold to FGR compared to 3,4 tonnes in the same period of 2023, representing a 26% increase.
However, gold delivery from small-scale miners, who are the main contributors to the country’s gold output, fell by 23% in the first quarter. Said Chitando:
<blockquote>
For small-scale miners, the gold deliveries to FGR have decreased from 5,2 tonnes in 2023 to four tonnes in 2024, a 23% decrease.
The small-scale miners have contributed 48% of the gold delivered to FGR for the year 2024 as compared to the 60% contribution for the previous year, 2023.
Over the years since 2020, small-scale miners have been the major contributors to gold deliveries to FGR contributing more than 60%.
However, for the year 2024, the contribution by small-scale miners ranges between 42% and 53% which calls for investigations into the decline in gold deliveries.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt In Gold Production Mobilisation Drive To Stabilise ZiG

Zimbabwe Mining And Smelting Company (ZIMASCO), the largest integrated ferrochrome producer in Zimbabwe, has reportedly compulsorily retrenched over 200 workers from its various subsidiaries around the country.
<a href="https://masvingomirror.com/zimasco-today-retrenches-200-workers/">The Mirror</a> reported sources as saying those retrenched workers are from the company’s operational centres in Mutorashanga, Shurugwi, Harare and Kwekwe.
In a notice of compulsory retrenchment written to each worker and seen by The Mirror, ZIMASCO offers no package and gives the workers May 31, 2024, as the last working day.
The affected workers have refused to sign the retrenchment letters in the absence of any mention of packages and the short notice.
Workers Committee chairman Davison Panganai told The Mirror that he was not at work and not aware of the matter.
According to the notice, ZIMASCO said it had taken the drastic move in response to poor prices on the international market and other challenges. Reads part of the notice:
<blockquote>
Further to the brief from the executive chairman shared with you recently, the Company hereby advises that your position was made redundant through restructuring and was declared excess to the company’s immediate requirements.
You have thus been listed for compulsory retrenchment which processes are commencing with immediate effect.
</blockquote>
In March this year, Impala Platinum Holdings’ Zimbabwean unit, Zimplats, initiated voluntary job cuts among its employees as a cost-cutting measure.
Zimplats offered its employees a minimum of three months’ pay in redundancy packages.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMASCO Retrenches 200 Workers

Some prominent government officials connected to ZANU PF bigwigs have reportedly established a cartel that is grabbing gold mining claims across the country.
<a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/cartels-hit-mining-sector/">Business Times</a> reported sources in the mining industry as saying there is fierce fighting over the control of mining claims across the country.
An official of a mining association, who preferred anonymity told Business Times this week that the recent dip in gold output is attributable to clashes over mining claims. Said the official:
<blockquote>
Sadly, there are so many well-knit corruption syndicates involving high-ranking officials in the government, including the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development taking over the claims that are already occupied by some miners.
What we are now seeing is that some powerful figures are now coming with back-dated documentation on the mines which we have mined for close to a decade now.
Our members haven’t mined properly since January due to this fight and the situation has intensified across the country hence the reduction in gold output despite not having heavy rains.
</blockquote>
Wellington Takavarasha, CEO of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), said that there are several mining disputes. Said Takavarasha:
<blockquote>
There are a number of disputes. The miners can approach our offices and the provincial directors to resolve such disputes to bring sanity into the sector.
It has happened and it is happening but not on such a high magnitude as purported by some people.
We have seen orphans and widows encountering such problems but we are helping out to ensure they get back their claims back. The Mines and Mineral Act is clear that whoever started pegging will win.
</blockquote>
Mines and Mining Development Minister, Winston Chitando, promised to investigate the claims. He said:
<blockquote>
I will do my investigations into these matters but for now, you can send your questions in writing so that I can give you a comprehensive answer.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe produced 30 tonnes of gold in 2023, 15% less than the previous year as electricity cuts and currency volatility impacted output.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cartels Hit Mining Sector, Blamed For Declining Gold Output

Residents of Pumula North Suburb in Bulawayo accuse a Chinese quarry mining company, Hualin Investments (Pvt) Limited, of causing noise pollution and destroying road infrastructure in the suburb.
The roads, severely impacted by heavy-duty trucks transporting quarry materials, have led some kombi operators to avoid the Pumula North route altogether.
The Chinese company was granted permission to establish the quarry mine in 2021 by the City of Bulawayo and the contract is valid for 10 years.
Hualin is conducting quarry mining behind Pumula High School in the area, but the majority of residents are said to be against the venture.
A resident who spoke to <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200025641/pumula-residents-chinese-miner-clash-over-noise">Southern Eye</a> in an interview recently bemoaned the damage to infrastructure caused by the company. Said the resident:
<blockquote>
The infrastructure in the constituency is under threat of destruction, with some of the houses around the mine now having cracks due to heavy blasting at the mine, while roads have also been damaged by heavy-duty trucks.
</blockquote>
Another resident, Sikhumbulelo Dube, appealed to the Chinese miner to repair his cracked house.
Monica Dube, a resident from the peri-urban Methodist village said dust from the quarry is polluting pastures and their livestock is now feeding on dirt.
Ward 17 Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo confirmed the damage caused to the roads by heavy-duty trucks but also commended the mine for employing locals. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
What I know is that three-quarters of children with qualifications are from Pumula.
</blockquote>
Hualin Investments spokesperson Rodrick Moyo said the company’s operations are above board.
Moyo asserted that the company followed due processes and was monitored by inspectors from the Mines and Mining Development Ministry. He said:
<blockquote>
The mine has also implemented safety measures to warn residents living near the mine, including using notices, sirens and human personnel.
</blockquote>
Moyo also claimed that Hualin was ploughing back to the Pumula community through corporate social responsibility programmes. He said:
<blockquote>
The engagements have seen investments in local primary and secondary schools within Ward 17 for infrastructural development.
The Hualin scholarship programme pays school fees and registration for O-Level examinations for selected underprivileged students.
Water infrastructure is part of the 2024 development projects, and Babambeni Primary School has already benefited from a water kiosk to alleviate water challenges faced by locals.
</blockquote>
Chinese-owned mining operations in Zimbabwe are notorious for causing untold environmental degradation in the areas they operate.
Villagers living near these mines often complain about damaged roads and bridges, hazardous pollutants, and air pollution caused by the Chinese.
For instance, in Mutoko, where quarrying has been ongoing since the 1980s, the Buja people have witnessed cracks in their homes, debris from blasts, and overall environmental degradation.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chinese Quarry Mining Company Faces Backlash In Pumula North

Zimbabwe’s gold deliveries fell by 22 per cent in February to 1.85 tonnes compared to the 2.38 tonnes delivered in January mainly due to reduced output from small-scale producers.
The small-scale miners normally account for about 60 per cent of the country’s total gold output.
Large-scale producers delivered more to Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR) last month compared to their small-scale counterparts.
According to FGR, large-scale producers delivered 988.7kg, which translates to 53 per cent of the total for the month under review.
The small miners accounted for the balance of 47 per cent of the yellow metal output at 864.3 kg, representing a 31.76 per cent decline from 1266.51 kg in January.
Mines and Mining Development Permanent Secretary, Pfungwa Kunaka told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/gold-deliveries-to-fidelity-refinery-decline-22pc/">The Herald</a> that said the shift in the FGR payment modalities for gold miners, who were no longer receiving 100 per cent USD, resulted in the shift by some producers to lithium, which negatively impacted gold production. Kunaka said:
<blockquote>
The shift in FGR payment conditions deterred deliveries, in about three weeks we noticed significant declines in deliveries, but that is now sorted.
We have also witnessed a trend where small-scale miners are rushing to lithium mining, given that it is easier to extract, but the slump in lithium prices has seen them return to gold mining.
</blockquote>
Young Miners Foundation (YMF) chief executive officer, Payne Kupfuwa, said:
<blockquote>
As you know Fidelity used to pay gold deliveries 100 per cent in United States Dollars, but they (FGR) had reverted to paying 75 per cent USD and the remaining in local currency, this could have affected gold deliveries in February.
The situation has since been corrected and miners are now receiving their 100 per cent payment in US dollars.
</blockquote>
Gold is Zimbabwe’s single largest export by value, followed by platinum, together they account for over half of the country’s export revenue.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Deliveries To Fidelity Refinery Decline 22%

Geo Associates has confirmed gas, light oil, condensate and helium deposits in Muzarabani, Mines and Mining Development Minister Zhemu Soda has said.
GeoAssociates is the licence holder of the special grant 4571 where the gas discovery has been confirmed.
Australia Stock Exchange-listed Invictus Energy holds 80 percent of GeoAssociates while the balance is owned by the indigenous group, One Gas Resources.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare on Monday, 04 March, Soda said that exploration activities in Muzarabani have resulted in further discoveries of gas, condensate, helium, and hydrogen. He said (<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/gas-oil-discovery-changes-energy-game/">via The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
Today we are here to make further announcements about the exploration activities that continue to happen in Muzarabani.
We are pleased to announce that from the 11 samples that were extracted, Geo Associates reported to Government yesterday that they made further discoveries of gas, condensate, helium, and hydrogen.
The hydrogen which they discovered does not contain hydrogen sulphide which is an undesirable constituent of our petroleum products and there is potential from the light oil which was discovered to be beneficiated to produce diesel, petrol and Jet A1.
This is a huge step in the realisation of our Vision 2030 where we aspire to become an upper-middle-income economy.
We do encourage the investors to roll out their commercialisation and monetising activities which they have intimated to Government.
The results are that the natural gas is of high quality with minimal impurities and that there is no hydrogen sulphide in the samples (which is an undesirable constituent in oil and gas).
Above all, the oil discovered falls into the light oil classification. This is the oil classification that produces diesel, petrol as well as jet A1.
The presence of helium and hydrogen which has also been confirmed becomes a welcome bonus from the Mukuyu deposit.
Zimbabwe is on course to be counted as a player in the oil and gas industry. There are unimaginable spinoffs for the economy and for Zimbabweans at large from oil and gas extraction and the attendant value chain activities.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Quality Gas Discovered In Muzarabani

Invictus Energy, an Australian oil and gas company has said gas samples retrieved from the successful Mukuyu-2 ST1 well campaign are set to reach the United States for laboratory analysis this week.
In its latest update on Tuesday, 13 February, Invictus said the results from the lab analysis are anticipated within 2 weeks and will provide confirmation of the samples’ hydrocarbon composition. It said:
<blockquote>
Invictus Energy Limited (“Invictus” or “the Company”), is pleased to provide an update of the gas samples acquired from the Mukuyu-2 ST1 well and gas discovery at its 80% owned and operated Cabora Bassa project in Zimbabwe…
Following the two gas discoveries from the Upper and Lower Angwa reservoirs in recently completed Mukuyu-2 / ST1 drilling campaign, the downhole gas samples acquired have completed export procedures and are due to arrive in the United States for analysis at the end of this week.
Initial analysis is anticipated to be completed within the next two weeks following which the Company will provide the results as soon as available.
</blockquote>
In December 2023, the oil and gas firm announced a second gas discovery at its Cabora Bassa project in Zimbabwe.
The discovery was made at the Mukuyu-2 well, which is located approximately 6.8 kilometres northeast of the Mukuyu-1 well. The Mukuyu-2 well was drilled using the Exalo Rig 202.
Invictus said during the drilling process, the Mukuyu-2 sidetrack well reached a total depth of 3,360 meters above the interval.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Invictus Sends Muzarabani Gas Samples To United States For Laboratory Analysis

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), has reportedly restored the 100% foreign currency payments to small-scale gold miners, who produce 62% of the country’s gold.
This comes after the RBZ announced late last year that all economic sectors were subject to a 75% uniform forex retention. The central bank said at the time:
<blockquote>
With effect from 1 November 2023, foreign currency retentions on exports shall be standardised at the level of 75% across all sectors of the economy and all special dispensations granted to some sectors of the economy shall be removed.
</blockquote>
Small-scale miners then pressured the RBZ to rescind the policy and resume paying 100% in foreign exchange.
Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Henrietta Rushwaya confirmed the latest development to <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/rbz-in-forex-retention-u-turn/">Business Times</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
Small-scale miners have been getting a 100% forex retention threshold all year round in 2023 and we didn’t suffer retention challenges.
There was an impasse for a week but the authorities were quick to resolve it.
</blockquote>
The Gold Miners Association of Zimbabwe CEO, Irvine Chinyenze said the 75% forex retention was going to promote the illicit flow of gold out of the country. He told Business Times:
<blockquote>
There was a danger that smuggling was going to be rampant as miners were going to look for more lucrative markets where they get value for money rather than lose value in the process.
This was going to reduce production at an alarming rate as miners were going to diversify to other sectors that wholly give earnings in US$.
Though we can’t quantify criminality, the country was going to lose over US$2bn in revenues if the current policy direction was not going to be reversed.
This was going to see a great deal of forex being externalised beyond the country’s borders thereby losing massive revenues along the way.
This was going to create an influx of gold mafia gangs as the authorities created a thriving environment for them to smuggle and externalise United States dollars through illicit deals.
</blockquote>
In 2020, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said that Zimbabwe was losing US$100 million worth of gold every month through international smuggling rings.
In 2023, Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) claimed that Zimbabwe’s government was using smuggling cartels to sell gold worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

RBZ Yields To Small-scale Gold Miners' Demand

Twenty-three cattle died in Rixton Village, Mhangura, Zimbabwe on January 13, 2024, likely due to cyanide poisoning. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating the incident. According to a statement seen by Pindula News, the police said the cattle died immediately after drinking water from a stream near a gold ore leaching plant. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
Police in Mhangura are investigating circumstances surrounding the death of 23 cattle due to suspected cyanide poisoning which occurred on 13/01/24 at Rixton Village 4. The cattle died on the spot after drinking water from a stream near a gold ore leaching plant.
</blockquote>
Cattle have great importance in Zimbabwe and Africa as a symbol of wealth. Losing 23 cattle, as happened in this incident, is a significant loss for both the individuals affected and the entire nation. Cattle are valuable assets that contribute to the national herd, so losing them means losing a substantial amount of wealth. It is a loss that impacts not only the immediate owners but also the wider community and the country as a whole.
This incident raises concerns about the discharge of water contaminated with harmful substances into rivers by gold miners, which poses risks to both humans and animals.
The case is not the first one of its nature. In March 2022, a Chinese-owned gold mine near Karoi reportedly spilt cyanide-laced slimes into the Angwa River, resulting in the death of fish and endangering the lives of villagers downstream. In July of the same year, it was reported that gold miners in Mudzi and Nyanga were releasing water containing poisonous substances, including cyanide and mercury, into rivers. This pollution caused the death of livestock and potential health complications for villagers. Kunyu Mining (Pvt) Ltd, a Chinese-owned company, was specifically highlighted as a major polluter, discharging waste into the Nyamombe River.
The pollution of rivers in Manicaland became so widespread that neighbouring Mozambique lodged a formal complaint with Zimbabwean authorities.
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23 Cattle Die On Spot After Drinking Water Near A Gold Ore Leaching Plant

The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has advised artisanal miners to suspend operations during the rainy season because of the extreme risks of flooding, and collapsing shafts and tunnels.
Speaking at a media conference on mining precautions during the rainy season held in Harare on Monday, 15 January, Mines and Mining Development Minister Zhemu Soda also urged large-scale mining companies to observe safe mining methods and be compliant with all governance requirements. Said Soda (<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/artisanal-mining-stopped-during-rainy-season/">via The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development would like to advise all miners, large-scale, medium-scale, and small-scale in particular artisanal miners across the country that the onset of the rainy season brings with it grave dangers and risks that are a threat to lives and potential loss of equipment and damage to mines.
During the rainy season we experience heightened risks in the form of flooding, drowning, weakened ground leading to fall and ground subsidence as well as slime dam breaches which unfortunately lead to loss of lives.
As a precaution, small-scale artisanal miners are advised to completely stop mining altogether and resume when the rains stop.
Furthermore, miners should cooperate with instructions given by Government authorities to ensure safe mining operations.
The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development inspectors shall be out in full force to ensure that there is compliance with all governance requirements failure of which punishment will be imposed.
Miners who received awareness training during the safety, health and environment campaigns by our Mining Engineering Department are reminded to put into practice what they learned.
They should also share good mining practices with their colleagues in the sector to save lives.
</blockquote>
Soda said medium and large-scale miners can continue with their operations during the rainy season but they should observe safe mining methods. He said:
<blockquote>
Avoid working or mining along rivers or waterways as shafts are likely to flood from rain upstream posing risks of drowning.
Avoid digging and blasting in old mine workings because soils easily get saturated and the ground becomes unstable and is bound to collapse at any time burying our miners alive. Pillar robbing underground should be avoided at all costs;
Avoid sinking shafts in low-lying areas as there is a danger of mines being flooded by free-flowing waters during the rains; Miners should take measures to divert free-flowing water from flooding workings.
</blockquote>
The suspension of all small-scale mining operations in the country follows the recent collapse of a mineshaft at Metallon Gold’s Redwing Mine in the Tsapauta area of Penhalonga which trapped 15 artisanal miners.
The miners dug their way out of the collapsed mine and eventually emerged onto the surface after four days in the belly of the earth.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Advises Artisanal Miners To Suspend Operations During Rainy Season

Owen Jaison, one of the 14 artisanal miners who were trapped underground for three days after a mine shaft to a tunnel they were working in collapsed at Tsapauta in Penhalonga, Manicaland Province said that their escape from the belly of the Earth was a miracle.
Jaison (24), is from the Insiza District in Matabeleland South province, more than 460km away from Redwing Mine.
Narrating the artisanal miners’ harrowing experience to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200022011/buried-alive-for-3-daysredwing-mine-survivor-recounts-horror">NewsDay</a>, Jaison their escape “proved” to him that miracles exist. He said:
<blockquote>
It can only be God. It was a miracle and I now believe that miracles do happen.
</blockquote>
The horror started in the early hours of 04 January 2024 when Jaison and his colleagues were mining underground. He said:
<blockquote>
We heard a noise and realised that the shaft pillars were falling. We sensed that we were in danger.
The ground was wet and the walls of the shaft continued caving in towards us. The opening of the shaft was closed by sand and we had nowhere to go.
So we went deeper into the mine looking for escape tunnels, but to no avail. There was no time to sleep as we were determined to survive.
</blockquote>
The miners fed on underground tree roots while being haunted by the fear of underground explosions, gas poisoning, suffocation and mine walls caving in. Said Jaison:
<blockquote>
There was no time to sleep as we looked for tunnels to escape. We ate the roots of trees and drank dirty water. Some wept uncontrollably, while others were mired in confusion.
We told ourselves that we had to be psychologically strong. We prayed to God to give us more strength. We developed hope and the quest for survival kept us going.
</blockquote>
However, after three days most of the miners were exhausted and weak. He said:
<blockquote>
We prayed harder and told ourselves that we had to survive, otherwise we were going to die. The ground continued to cave in. So we had to go to the other side where the ground was still intact.
As we crept, pushing against the narrow walls, we noticed a crack and we went to investigate. We realised that the crack had been caused by the collapsed shaft.
We took rods and sticks and started digging into the crack. We dug up and crawled up the crack.
There were four of us who first went up the crack. We held each other’s hands as we dug and crawled up. It was not easy, but we had to survive.
</blockquote>
Jaisone chronicled how they spent hours digging into the crack, determined to reach the surface. He said:
<blockquote>
It was so painful to dig up the crack. Our bodies became weak because of hunger and severe thirst. Some of the younger miners were gripped with the panic of death.
When we realised that we were almost reaching the surface, we shouted to our colleagues to follow us.
The four of us then managed to break out and crawled out to the surface through the crack.
We then saw some people who were moving around searching for us and we shouted for help.
That is when we told them that the other guys were behind us. Fortunately, nine miners came out the way we did.
There were two left who could not make it due to fatigue, that is when the rescue team was notified and they brought a rope to pull them out. That is how we survived.
</blockquote>
Mines and Mining Development Minister Zhemu Soda has since suspended mining activities at Redwing Mine.
However, illegal mining facilitated by political elites and politically connected groups is said to be still taking place at the mine.
Meanwhile, Jaison has decided to take a break from artisanal mining, saying “I cannot gamble my life again”.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Redwing Mine Tunnel Collapse Survivor Recounts Horror

Acting President, Constantino Chiwenga, has applauded rescue teams that saved <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/08/metallon-corporation-update-on-redwing-mine-operations/">15 miners that had been trapped</a> at Redwing Mine. The miners were trapped on Thursday last week and were only rescued on Sunday. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the former military boss said President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is on annual leave, has ordered that a thorough investigation be conducted to establish what transpired. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
On behalf of His Excellency the President who is on a month-long annual break, Government and on my behalf, I deeply applaud the multi-agency teams from both Government and the private sector for a successful rescue operation which saved 15 trapped miners at the Metallon Gold-owned Redwing Mine in Penhalonga, Manicaland Province. Remarkable team-spirit and prompt response and mobilisation of resources by all concerned, including the mining sector, saved the fifteen distressed souls, giving our Nation nothing short of a miracle without any parallel in the world. The situation was dire. Massive tremors collapsed the mine, creating deep cracks around the mine, thus making all rescue efforts hazardous and painstakingly slow. It became a race against time. Happily the operation concluded successfully with all the trapped miners brought to safety. Government is most grateful to the teams involved, and to the 15 trapped miners who kept united and hopeful. Government keenly follows the miners as they currently receive medical attention, including counselling services.
Going forward, His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa who keenly followed the rescue efforts throughout, has directed the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to thoroughly and fully investigate this disaster so Government can draw necessary lessons and adopt appropriate measures A improve safety in the whole mining sector, regardless of ownership and nature of mining activity. Safety of mining workers and artisanal miners remain uppermost. Government is determined A ensure that impressive growth in the mining sector is underpinned by safety standards of the highest order in this strategic sector.
</blockquote>
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Chiwenga Applauds Teams That Rescued 15 Miners Trapped At Redwing Mine

Metallon Corporation, the owner of Redwing Mine (which is being operated by Scott Sakupwanya’s Betterbrands) and Mazowe Mine, has issued an update on 15 miners who were evacuated from the Redwing Mine. The Redwing mineshaft had collapsed trapping them since Thursday 4 January 2024. They were evacuated on Sunday 7 January 2024. We  present the statement below:
<blockquote>
<h3>Update on Redwing Mine Operations</h3>
We are relieved to report that all 15 miners have evacuated to the surface and there has been no loss of life. Medical care and all necessary support have been rendered to the affected.
Metallon Corporation, the owner of Redwing Mine and Mazowe Mine, wishes to state the following;
Redwing Mine has historically operated as a formalised, large-scale mine. When the mine was placed under corporate rescue in 2020, and under the management of an administrator, artisanal mining was introduced on a wide scale. This incident occurred in one of the artisanal mining near-surface pits.
In 2022, the Supreme Court effectively removed the mine from corporate rescue. Since then, Metallon has been engaged in processes to restore formalised mining. As part of these processes, Metallon is ending unsafe mining practices, including all small-scale mining, and returning these operations to the formalised mining that Metallon has always conducted.
Metallon Corp. Management
</blockquote>
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Metallon Corporation Update On Redwing Mine Operations

Fifteen miners who were <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/04/15-miners-feared-dead-at-a-mine-owned-by-mabvuku-tafara-mp-scott-sakupwanya/">feared dead after a mineshaft collapsed</a> at Redwing Mine which is owned by ZANU PF Member of Parliament (MP) for Mabvuku-Tafara Scott Sakupwanya have all been rescued. The mine which is in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, is run by Sakupwanya’s Betterbrands company. The collapse occurred in the early morning of Thursday, 4 January 2024.
In an update, ZBC News reported that all 15 miners are alive and rescue efforts continue.
<img alt="" class="wp-image-269275 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="245" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 518px) 100vw, 518px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Miners-2-300x142.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Miners-2-300x142.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Miners-2-768x363.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Miners-2.jpg 1008w" width="518"/>
Redwing Mine resumed its operations in March 2023. The mine had been temporarily closed by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) at the end of January 2023 due to more than 20 fatalities in 13 months.
Elton Makumbe, the mining director of Manicaland province said the decision to authorise the mine to resume operations was made based on the efforts made by the company to improve the situation in the area. The conditions for reopening included focusing on environmental protection, enhancing security against illegal miners, and ensuring the use of proper safety equipment.
Makumbe said it’s important to recognise that implementing these safety and environmental conditions takes time and effort. However, they can work on these aspects while continuing their mining operations and generating revenue. He added that the decision to allow the reopening of the mine considered various factors, including the economic impact on people’s livelihoods and the mine’s contribution to the country’s finances.
However, three civic groups, namely the Centre for Research and Development (CRD), Ziva Community Empowerment Trust, and Penhalonga Youth Development Ratepayers Trust, issued a joint statement claiming that 100 artisanal miners had lost their lives at Sakupwanya’s mine since 2020.
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Miners Trapped At Scott Sakupwanya's Redwing Mineshaft: All 15 Miners Rescued

The Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Zhemu Soda has issued a statement detailing the accident that occurred at the Redwing Gold Mine owned by ZANU PF’s Mabvuku-Tafara MP Scott Sakupwanya. Earlier reports indicated that 15 people were feared dead after a mineshaft at the mine operated by Sakupwanya’s Betterbrabds company had collapsed. Said the minister:
<blockquote>
<h3>STATEMENT ON ACCIDENT AT REDWING MINE, PENHALONGA, MANICALAND</h3>
<ul>
<li>The accident happened between 0500-0600am today Thursday 04 January 2024.</li>
<li>11 people are suspected to be trapped underground about 20 metres below surface.</li>
<li>Cause of the collapse of the mine shaft is suspected to be an earth tremor whose source is yet to be ascertained.</li>
<li>The miners are suspected to have entered the mine through different shafts.</li>
<li>The Rescue team of Metallon Gold at Redwing Mine together with Inspectors from our Provincial Office went underground around 0900am attempting to rescue and had to retreat after noticing the ground still carving in.</li>
<li>The team tried again around 1200hrs and noticed that the ground had collapsed more.</li>
<li>Metallon as a company has indicated that it has sufficient capacity to carry out the rescue mission.</li>
<li>More cracks developed on surface and subsidence was noticed on surface around the mine.</li>
<li>The ground is still curving in. It appears like the miners had mined out support pillars.</li>
<li>I have established that Metallon Gold Redwing has been tributing mining areas at Redwing even to individuals. The shaft that collapsed was under some individuals and the people trapped were workers of the tribute. Management of tributed areas falls under the Principal owner, Metallon Gold in this case. Therefore, The Rescue team from Metallon has been leading in the rescue effort supported by Ministry of Mines and other stakeholders including ZRP and Civil Protection.</li>
<li>Of concern is the fact that the ground at this place is visibly cracking and subsiding and therefore is unsafe.</li>
<li>They will resume rescue activities tomorrow morning.</li>
<li>We maintain strong hope that these efforts will bear fruit.</li>
</ul>
Hon Z. Soda (MP) 
Minister of Mines and Mining Development 
04 January 2024
</blockquote>
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Mines Minister Statement On Accident At Scott Sakupwanya's Redwing Mine

Fifteen miners are feared dead after a mineshaft collapsed at Redwing Mine which is owned by ZANU PF Member of Parliament (MP) for Mabvuku-Tafara Scott Sakupwanya. The mine is in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe. 
The incident occurred in the early morning of Thursday, 4 January 2024. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the event without providing further details. Read the police report:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is waiting for full information from Officer Commanding Manicaland Police province on the alleged eleven miners trapped at Redwing Mine, Penhalonga.
</blockquote>
The police mentioned that they would provide more information at a later time.
Redwing Mine, managed by Sakupwanya’s company called BetterBrands, resumed its operations in March 2023. The mine had been temporarily closed by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) at the end of January 2023 due to more than 20 fatalities in 13 months.
Elton Makumbe, the mining director of Manicaland province said the decision to authorise the mine to resume operations was made based on the efforts made by the company to improve the situation in the area. The conditions for reopening included focusing on environmental protection, enhancing security against illegal miners, and ensuring the use of proper safety equipment.
Makumbe said it’s important to recognize that implementing these safety and environmental conditions takes time and effort. However, they can work on these aspects while continuing their mining operations and generating revenue. He added that the decision to allow the reopening of the mine considered various factors, including the economic impact on people’s livelihoods and the mine’s contribution to the country’s finances.
However, three civic groups, namely the Centre for Research and Development (CRD), Ziva Community Empowerment Trust, and Penhalonga Youth Development Ratepayers Trust, issued a joint statement claiming that 100 artisanal miners had lost their lives at Sakupwanya’s mine since 2020.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

15 Miners Feared Dead At A Mine Owned By Mabvuku-Tafara MP Scott Sakupwanya

The Zimbabwe Diamond Miners and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has expressed concern about the difficult conditions faced by workers in large mining companies in Zimbabwe. These companies include RioZim’s Cam &amp; Motor Mine in Kadoma, Renco Mine in Masvingo, Murowa Diamonds in Zvishavane, and the closed Dalyn Mine in Chakari and Empress Nickel Refinery. The union said workers are experiencing staggered salaries with no solution in sight, making 2023 a nightmarish year for them.
In their New Year statement for 2024, ZDAMWU expressed renewed hope for better prospects and welfare. They highlight the challenges faced by mine workers in 2023, such as underpayment of salaries, late salary payments, low wages, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), job insecurity, and shrinking salaries due to taxes and deductions. In a statement sent to Pindula News, the union’s General Secretary Justice Chinhema said:
<blockquote>
Zdamwu is concerned with hardships being faced by workers at big mining corporations such as RioZim who Cam &amp; Motor Mine in Kadoma, Renco Mine in Masvingo, Murowa Diamonds in Zvishavane and the closed Dalyn Mine in Chakari and Empress Nickel Refinery who are earning staggered salaries month in and month out with no solution in sight. We are concerned that over 1,000 workers of the closed Vumbachikwe Mine owned by Forbes &amp; Thompson in Gwanda might all be jobless if action to protect the mine from collapsing is not taken soon, They last got paid in September 2022 and are accumulating salaries while seated at home with nothing in sight towards opening the mine and a restoration of jobs of the said workers. Equally, we are worried with the situation prevailing at closed operations such as Mbada Diamonds, Shabani, Mashava, DTZ- Ozegio, Makomo Resources and recently Zhong Jian where workers are yet to be paid their terminal benefits so that they can have closure on their empowerment with these companies and start a new life.
</blockquote>
The union said it had hoped that the new Labor Amendment Act would bring relief to mine workers, particularly in the area of dispute resolution. However, the act created loopholes instead of providing the expected help. Many cases dating back to 2016 remain unresolved, causing workers to lose trust in the union. The safety of workers was also a concern, as there were fatalities and accidents throughout the year. The emergence of corrupt investors who prioritise profits over worker safety has further exacerbated the situation.
Moving forward, ZDAMWU has outlined its plans for the year 2024 and beyond. Their main goals include defending workers’ rights, fighting against unsafe work and labour casualisation, building union power through membership recruitment, confronting capital aggressively, and promoting sustainable transformation and industry development. The union aims to unmask and expose capitalists and “paper bag” unions that are causing harm and confusion in the industry. They also plan to engage in policy formulation to address their demands, such as profit sharing for improved living standards, share ownership for community and economic development, value addition and beneficiation of minerals for job creation, and an end to all forms of harassment and corruption in the mining industry.
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ZDAMWU: In 2023, Mine Workers Endured A Nightmarish Year

Two illegal gold miners died just after midnight on Saturday at Vubachikwe Mine in Gwanda when the shaft they were working in collapsed.
The mine has been closed for a year after a strike by mine workers over salaries.
Police have identified the deceased as Nqobile Phiri from Esigodini and Thamsanqa Moyo from Gwanda.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Matabeleland South Province, Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the incident to <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/two-die-in-mine-collapse/">The Sunday News</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
Other two panners were doing illegal panning, Bhekimpilo Ndebele (32) and Alex Mvendele (40) who heard the sound of people screaming for help inside a shaft.
One of them was also trapped but survived and was referred to Gwanda Provincial Hospital for treatment.
The bodies of the two miners were retrieved at 7 AM from the mine shaft and they are at Gwanda Provincial Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-modern.
</blockquote>
An illegal gold miner who identified himself as Ntandoyenkosi Nyathi said he was also working in the shaft with the deceased when a big rock fell and the shaft collapsed. He said:
<blockquote>
I saw a big rock falling from above and it hit the two guys who were carrying the ore. A lot of people who were in the shaft ran away. One of the deceased told me that he was dying and I should help him.
I then told him that the stone was too heavy and I could not lift it by myself. I went to look for help and when I came back he was already dead.
</blockquote>
Insp Mangena urged members of the public to desist from illegal gold mining saying they risk their lives.
Gold panning has become a common practice in Zimbabwe due to prevailing economic hardships, with children as young as 10 years old taking part in the illegal activities.
Gold panning provides a lifeline for some during difficult times, but the practice can have detrimental effects on the environment, including soil erosion and water pollution.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Gold Panners Crushed To Death By Huge Boulder At Vubachikwe Mine

Hwange Colliery, Zimbabwe’s oldest coal producer, has made significant progress in repaying its creditors since entering into reconstruction over a year ago. The company has already repaid over US$350 million of its US$400 million debt, thanks to deals facilitated by external administrators, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/theindependent/local-news/article/200020961/hwange-colliery-pays-off-us350m-debt">the Independent</a> reported. The remaining US$50 million, owed mostly to foreign creditors and the government, is expected to be settled within the next two years.
Hwange Colliery, in which the government holds a 42% share, plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, particularly in power generation. The company has a direct conveyor belt connecting its coalfields to the Hwange Thermal Power Station.
To rebuild the company, administrators are exploring various options, including diversifying into agriculture. The colliery is also constructing a coke oven battery plant as part of its efforts to revive the business. According to Hwange Colliery administrator Munashe Shava, the reconstruction process is progressing well, with the company on track to clear its remaining debt within the next 24 months. He did not disclose the specific creditors who have been repaid. He told the Independent last week:
<blockquote>
The reconstruction of Hwange is progressing well.
We have done most of the modalities expected, which include producing the state of affairs report and having statutory meetings with the shareholders. We also met with creditors to map the way forward. We used to owe close to US$400 million, but now we are left with a debt of less than US$50 million, which we anticipate to clear in the next 24 months. This shows we are on the right track.
</blockquote>
The revival of Hwange Colliery has gained attention since the completion of a $1.5 billion upgrade of units at the Hwange thermal power station, which requires increased coal throughput. The power utility, ZESA Holdings, has been stockpiling coal to ensure uninterrupted supplies. Hwange Colliery, with extensive coal reserves spanning 222,000 hectares, used to produce 500,000 tonnes of coal per month, supplying regional steel companies and the now-defunct Ziscosteel. The company’s progress in repaying its debts and diversifying its operations bodes well for its future stability and growth.
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Hwange Colliery Has Repaid Over US$350 Million Of Its US$400 Million Debt

Invictus Energy, an Australian oil and gas company, has announced a second gas discovery at its Cabora Bassa project in Zimbabwe. The discovery was made at the Mukuyu-2 well, which is located approximately 6.8 kilometres northeast of the Mukuyu-1 well. The Mukuyu-2 well was drilled using the Exalo Rig 202.
During the drilling process, the Mukuyu-2 sidetrack well reached a total depth of 3,360 meters above the interval. It encountered over-pressured gas in the original wellbore. Invictus utilized a wireline formation testing tool to recover a total of 11 hydrocarbon samples from the Upper and Lower Angwa reservoirs.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Invictus-Energy-Update-15-Dec.pdf">Invictus Energy Update 15 Dec On 2nd Gas Discovery</a> </li>
</ul>
Following the recovery of the hydrocarbon samples, the well was prepared for wireline logging, and the samples will be sent to a laboratory for further analysis to determine the exact composition of the hydrocarbons.
Preliminary estimates based on wireline log interpretation suggest a net pay of 34.9 meters for the Mukuyu-2 well across the Upper and Lower Angwa formations. Additionally, the well intersected significant additional gross sands within the Upper and Lower Angwa gas legs, although they currently fall below the net reservoir cut-off.
The full potential of the resource size will be determined through further appraisal activities and technical evaluations of log, core, seismic, and well-test data. Invictus Energy’s Managing Director, Scott Macmillan, expressed delight at the additional gas discovery from the Mukuyu-2 sidetrack well in the Lower Angwa formation. He added:
<blockquote>
The discovery of gas in both the Upper and Lower Angwa greatly expands the resource in the Mukuyu gas field and marks another significant milestone for Invictus.
The Mukuyu-2 discoveries were drilled 7km away and 450m updip of the Mukuyu-1 discovery well which, confirms the incredible potential of the Mukuyu field, which has a structural closure of over 200km2.
This also provides the Company with substantial running room for identifying further potential discoveries within our commanding 360,000ha acreage in the Cabora Bassa Basin.
</blockquote>
Invictus Energy plans to keep using a wireline logging tool to collect more data about the well. They also want to get additional samples from the sides of the well and use a special technique called vertical seismic profiling to gather more information. They will then finish the sidetrack by placing a protective layer inside the well, which will allow them to stop the operations for now and test the flow of gas in the future. This will also give them a chance to check and test the remaining part of the Lower Angwa section.
The information they gather from the Mukuyu-2 well will be combined with their existing geological and geophysical data to help them decide where to explore and evaluate next in their large area of land in the Cabora Bassa Basin. They plan to conduct tests on the Mukuyu-2 well to see how much gas it can produce, and they also intend to drill more wells to assess their potential and search for new opportunities in the future.
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Invictus Energy Announces 2nd Gas Discovery In Zimbabwe

Invictus Energy, an Australian firm, which <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/12/07/invictus-energy-declares-gas-discovery-in-zimbabwe/">recently made a significant gas condensate discovery in Zimbabwe</a> is planning to build a gas-to-power plant to monetise the hydrocarbons.
GeoAssociates director Paul Chimbodza stated in an interview with The Sunday Mail that the company plans to quickly monetise the gas from Mukuyu-2 by building a gas-to-power plant. GeoAssociates is the licence holder of special grant 4 571 covering Mukuyu-1/2, and its partners Invictus Energy and One Gas Resources. Chimbodza believes that this discovery can be a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s exports and energy security. He is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
We have made a gas discovery and it’s a significant discovery; the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa for a very long time. It is the start of a very long journey; you recall we drilled Mukuyu-1 and Mukuyu-2, which are only seven kilometres apart.
We still have to cover an area of about 100 kilometres by 50 kilometres in extent. Because of the Invictus listing requirements, any material information that we come across, we are mandated to release it to the public. We hope this is the start of more positive news to come.
We are still drilling at Mukuyu-2. These results that we have just released are coming from a part of that, we still have another 400m to 500m of Mukuyu-2 to drill and we expect more positive results. You will recall, last year, the main failure for us to recover the fluid sample (from Mukuyu-2), which we have successfully recovered now, which is a precondition for you (to be allowed) to declare a discovery.
</blockquote>
In 2019, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/invictus-signs-500mw-gas-to-power-plant-mou">Invictus Energy entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Tatanga Energy</a> to supply gas for a 500MW gas-to-power plant. The electricity generated by the plant will be sold to the national grid, as well as to various consumers in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia, including mines and industrial sectors. The supply term has been agreed upon for 20 years, and the plant will be built in two phases, with the first phase providing 150MW and the second phase adding 350MW.
Zimbabwe has been grappling with a severe electricity deficit, resulting in frequent power cuts that impact businesses and economic activities. With electricity demand peaking at around 2,200 megawatts (MW), the country is currently only able to generate half of its required power.
This gas discovery has been hailed as a game-changer for Zimbabwe, providing export opportunities and improving energy security. It also represents a significant development in the onshore oil and gas sector in Southern Africa. The Mukuyu exploration fields, where the discovery was made, are estimated to hold around 20 trillion cubic feet and 845 million barrels of conventional gas condensate. 
The company plans to continue exploration to assess the full extent of the gas deposits and potential oil reservoirs. In the meantime, Invictus Energy aims to start production at a small scale and gradually increase it over time. The company sees the gas-to-power plant as an early monetisation opportunity that can provide energy and revenue for the country while further exploration takes place.
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Invictus Energy Is Planning To Build A Gas-to-power Plant In Zimbabwe

Two men who were part of a group that had been hired to erect a perimeter fence at a mine in Filabusi were trapped underground and died after they had sneaked into a shaft to steal gold ore.
The deceased were identified as Nobert Banhu (24) and Naison Moyo (31), under Chief Skhobokhobo, Nkayi.
ZRP spokesperson in Matabeleland South Province Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the incident to the <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200020682/duo-dies-in-filabusi-mine-collapse">Southern Eye</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that I received a report on an incident in Insiza Mine in Filabusi. The circumstances are that on December 4, the two deceased with other mine workers spent the whole day fencing the mine.
It is reported that during the night the deceased connived to steal gold ore from the mine and entered the shaft.
A security guard who was doing routine checks realised that one of the mineshafts had collapsed.
The security guard alerted other mine workers who then retrieved the bodies.
</blockquote>
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Two Men Die In A Mine Shaft In Filabusi

<a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Farai_Maguwu">Farai Maguwu</a>, the founding Director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), says Zimbabwe needs visionary national leadership for the nation to benefit from its abundant natural resources.
Maguwu made the remarks following an announcement on Thursday morning by Mines and Mining Development Minister Zhemu Soda that Geo Associates and its partners Invictus Energy and One Gas Resources have successfully declared a gas discovery in Zimbabwe.
Invictus Energy also announced on the Australia Stock Exchange that four samples from the Upper Angwa section of its Mukuyu-2 exploration well confirm the presence of gas at the site.
Posting on X, Maguwu said Zimbabwe has exploited diamonds, chrome, gold, platinum and lithium for years but has nothing to show for it. <a href="https://x.com/FMaguwu/status/1732676795076399109?s=20">He wrote</a>:
<blockquote>
Before we hype about gas, let us ask questions: What did we do wrong with diamonds, chrome, gold, platinum and now lithium? Why did these fail to transform our economy?
What shall we do differently this time? Otherwise, it is repeating the same things and expecting different outcomes.
Dubai, a favourite holiday destination for our leaders, discovered Oil in 1966. In 1969 it began exporting oil.
Instantly, its ruler Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, decreed that Oil profits would be used to transform the lives of his people. Today, the Emiratis are a prosperous people.
In 2023, they say Oil production now constitutes a tiny % of their economy. They have diversified to wholesale &amp; retail trade, transport and logistics, banking and capital markets, manufacturing, real estate, tourism, construction etc. It all starts with leadership.
If a desert-like Dubai, with only oil, can transform itself so rapidly, think of a country like Zimbabwe with the best climate in Africa, the best arable land in SADC, many minerals found in large quantities, vast tourism potential where all big 5 are found in their natural habitat.
The possibilities in our country are limitless. But it starts with a vision and political will.
</blockquote>
Scott Macmillian, Invictus’ Managing Director, on Thursday, said that “the discovery represents one of the most significant developments in the onshore Southern Africa oil and gas industry for decades”.
 Soda said that the “discovery will have a positive impact on the economic and social development of Zimbabwe”.
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Without Visionary National Leadership, Gas Discovery Meaningless - Maguwu

Australian firm Invictus Energy has declared a gas find at its Muzarabani prospect in Zimbabwe.
Scott Macmillian, Invictus’ Managing Director, on Thursday, 07 December said that “the discovery represents one of the most significant developments in the onshore Southern Africa oil and gas industry for decades”.
In a statement, Mines and Mining Development Minister Zhemu Soda that the “discovery will have a positive impact on the economic and social development of Zimbabwe”. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
The Government of Zimbabwe is pleased to announce that Geo Associates and its partners Invictus Energy and One Gas Resources have successfully declared a gas discovery in Zimbabwe through the ongoing exploration activities in Muzarabani.
This is a major discovery and represents one of the most significant developments in the onshore Oil and Gas Sector in the Southern Africa Region. The discovery is the first Triassic-aged hydrocarbon in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Geo Associates has delivered an exceptional result from the first two wells drilled in Mukuyu, opening up substantial room in their large portfolio of prospects and leads for further discoveries.
The results were shared as should be the norm have now been shared with the Government. The company has also proceeded to make this announcement at the Australian Stock Exchange as per listing requirements.
A total of four hydrocarbon samples were recovered to the surface from two separate zones in the Upper Angwa using the wireline formation testing tool.
The samples meet key international standards and; gas and fluid properties will be confirmed following laboratory testing.
Currently, the Company is conducting further appraisal and evaluation work to confirm the size and quality of the gas reservoirs, and to determine the optimal development plan.
The discovery also bodes well for other prospects and leads in the remainder of the larger Cabora Bassa Basin.
This discovery is a result of the long-term partnership between Geo Associates and the Government of Zimbabwe, with the Government providing an appropriate mining title and a conducive regulatory and fiscal environment for the project.
Zimbabwe is proud and grateful for this cooperation, and we are confident this will unlock the full potential of Zimbabwe’s oil and gas resources.
We believe that this discovery will have a positive impact on the economic and social development of Zimbabwe.
Gas will also support the diversification of Zimbabwe’s energy mix, enhance its energy security, and create jobs and opportunities for local communities. We are confident that this discovery will open up new horizons for Zimbabwe.
Both the Government and the Investor would want to reiterate that this is gas a discovery, we have not yet confirmed the discovery of oil as further exploration, tests and evaluations are still ongoing. The discovery will change the economic landscape of the country.
The nation will be kept appraised and informed of developments over this oil and gas exploration project.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Invictus Energy Declares Gas Discovery In Zimbabwe

An elevator accident at an Impala Platinum Holdings’ (Implats) platinum mine in South Africa has resulted in the death of 11 workers and injured 75 others, with 14 in critical condition. The incident occurred on Monday evening at the end of the workers’ shift at a mine in Rustenburg. Implats has suspended all operations and launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. The Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, has also announced a government investigation into the tragedy.
All 86 workers involved were in the elevator at the time of the accident. Some of the injured workers have suffered serious fractures. The elevator dropped an estimated 200 meters, though further investigations will provide more accurate details. The mine shaft itself is approximately 1 kilometre deep.
In a statement seen by Pindula News, Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) said the elevator unexpectedly started going down while carrying workers to the surface. The rapid descent was stopped by the counterweight getting trapped. Emergency protocols were followed, and rescue teams were mobilised. Read the statement in part:
<blockquote>
Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) is devastated to report that 11 employees tragically lost their lives in the serious accident at Impala Rustenburg’s 11 Shaft at 16:54 yesterday afternoon. A further 75 employees were injured in the accident and were transferred and admitted for treatment to four hospitals in the region. The mine rescue operation is complete and all 86 employees are accounted for. 
We are presently in the process of informing and liaising with the impacted families in consultation with the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and are working closely with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE). All mining operations at Impala Rustenburg are suspended today.
</blockquote>
Implats CEO, Nico Muller, said:
<blockquote>
This is the darkest day in the history of Implats and our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and the individuals affected by this devasting accident. We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of our colleagues and are in the process of ensuring all next of kin have been contacted. Implats is offering ongoing support to the families and colleagues of those lost in service. We also hold our injured colleagues in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the local medical services from the Bojanala District and the Impala Medical Services team who worked tirelessly during this crisis to provide the necessary emergency paramedic services, secure additional ICU beds and ambulances, mobilise additional general surgeons and secure the support of three private hospitals to assist our Impala Hospital in caring for the critically injured.
We are also extremely grateful to all the proto and rescue teams for their tireless and courageous efforts, working under very difficult circumstances, to rescue our 11 Shaft team members. We value the efforts of all stakeholders coming together in this extremely difficult time, particularly the emergency responders.
</blockquote>
South Africa is the world’s largest producer of platinum, and the Impala Rustenburg mine is one of the largest platinum mines globally. The country has seen a decrease in mining fatalities in recent years, with 49 reported in 2022 compared to 74 the previous year. This is a significant improvement from the nearly 300 fatalities recorded in the year 2000.
Implats has a subsidiary in Zimbabwe, Zimplats, which operates the Ngezi mine and benefits from the support of Implats. Both companies are involved in platinum mining but have separate operations and management teams.
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