Compiled by Tatenda Mapooze

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law (ZELA) was part of the Delegation that represented Zimbabwe during the recent annual planetGOLD forum in Talisay, Philippines. The planetGOLD programme is a global initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The programme is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in partnership with Conservation International, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in collaboration with a number of implementing  partners.

The planetGOLD Programme helps artisanal and small-scale gold miners to replace toxic mercury with cleaner techniques, improves access to finance and facilitates formalization of the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector. The forum provided a global platform to discuss the environmental and socioeconomic implications of this vital yet often contentious sector.

ZELA had the opportunity to present on the complex relationship between artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) and biodiversity in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe’s mineral sector is a diverse and rapidly recovering industry that is expected to play a key role in the country’s journey towards middle-income status by 2030. The government’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) has set ambitious targets to grow the mining industry to a $12 billion sector by 2023. Within this dynamic landscape, the ASGM sector has gained significant prominence, accounting for around 60% of the country’s gold output[1]. This massive contribution supports the livelihoods of over a million people directly and indirectly. Given the importance of the ASGM sector to Zimbabwe’s economic development and social welfare, it is crucial to ensure its sustainability and growth.

The heavy reliance on (ASGM) in Zimbabwe has resulted in significant environmental and biodiversity impacts observed across Zimbabwe, particularly in sensitive areas along major rivers such as Mazoe and Umzingwane. These impacts are also visible in protected areas like Chimanimani and Umfurudzi National Parks. ASGM is causing rampant clearing of vegetation and loss of habitat, leading to the decline of endemic plant species and disruption of wildlife habitats; siltation and pollution of water bodies, impacting aquatic ecosystems and the food chain and Bioaccumulation of heavy metals like mercury, which can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem. Coupled with these effects is the pressure placed upon the authorities in terms of regulating the operations of ASMers, for example, by  locating/relocating them in lawful operating sites.

These challenges have led to the degradation of both terrestrial and aquatic environments, with far-reaching consequences for Zimbabwe’s rich biodiversity. Yet, it is crucial to acknowledge the ASGM sector’s critical role as a livelihood strategy and driver of economic development for over a million people in the country[2]. The sector’s significance in contributing to national mineral supplies and the government’s development agenda cannot be overlooked.

To achieve the delicate balance, emphasis is on the need for a comprehensive, technology-driven approach to mitigate the environmental impacts of ASGM while supporting the sector’s continued growth. Key strategies include:

Environmental Management and Sustainability:

1. Implementing sustainable mining practices, including reforestation, land rehabilitation, and water management strategies, to minimize environmental impacts of ASGM.
2. Promoting the adoption of cleaner and safer technologies for mineral extraction and processing, such as mercury-free gold extraction methods.
3. Strengthening environmental monitoring and enforcement of regulations to prevent pollution and protect ecosystems.

Education and Awareness:

4. Providing training programs and technical assistance to small-scale miners on modern mining techniques, ore processing methods and environmental management practices.
5. Raise awareness among mining communities on the ecological consequences of ASGM and promote sustainable approaches.

Regulatory Framework and Enforcement:

6. Establishing and enforcing robust regulations specifically targeting ASGM activities, including standards for environmental management, worker safety, and responsible use of chemicals.
7. Harmonizing policies and laws across sectors to effectively manage and regulate artisanal mining, avoiding contradictions and legislative loopholes.

Livelihood Diversification:

8. Providing alternative livelihood options, such as training and support for sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, or small-scale enterprises, to reduce dependency on mining activities.
9. Promoting economic incentives to encourage responsible and sustainable mining practices

Stakeholder Collaboration:

10. Facilitating collaboration between government, mining communities, environmental organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to develop and implement effective solutions.
11. Engaging local communities in decision-making processes to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed

Research and Monitoring:

12. Conducting research and monitoring to understand the ecological impacts of ASGM and evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures.

By integrating these so lutions and policy-level interventions, Zimbabwe can chart a path forward that balances the critical economic contributions of the ASGM sector with the imperative to safeguard its precious natural heritage. Such underscores the complexity of managing the environmental and developmental trade-offs inherent in the ASGM industry. There is a need for coordinated and committed working relationship among stakeholders to find innovative ways to protect Zimbabwe’s biodiversity while supporting the country’s economic growth aspirations.

[1] https://edepot.wur.nl/556671

[2]https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PA00M6XV.pdf