Mazowe Mining Company, a subsidiary of Metallon Corporation, is ending all near-surface mining and is set to resume underground mining shaft operations as part of a new corporate strategy.
The new strategy will entail extensive rehabilitation of existing mining areas and a focus on reintroducing safer, more controlled underground shaft mining.
This shift, according to Metallon, will significantly benefit miners, local communities, and the environment.
Metallon, which also owns Redwing Mine and How Mines, said the transition to underground shaft operations was crucial to ensure the safety of miners and protecting the surrounding communities.
It said the method minimised environmental impact and contributed more to the national fiscus through efficient resource extraction.
“This 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,” said Metallon.
“Consequently, MMC is ending all unsafe near-surface mining in favour of more secure operations; underground shaft operations will be safer for miners and the community. It will also contribute more to the national fiscus and boost supporting industries.”
The new strategic thrust aligns with recent pronouncements by the government of Zimbabwe, through the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, which is advocating for safe and sustainable mining.
“We are aware that these necessary measures to enforce responsible mining have faced resistance from some miners. Such actions prevent Mazowe Mining Company’s efforts to rehabilitate mining pits and pave way for safe mining. We note the campaign of misinformation that has targeted the company, meant to discredit the necessary steps we are taking.”
Metallon said Mazowe Mining Company was co-operating with all parties involved to ensure the success of the transition to safe mining. “Together, we aim to set a benchmark for responsible mining, fostering a secure and sustainable future for all stakeholders.”
