Compiled by Nesia Mhaka

Communities in Penhalonga, Mutasa district, say they are grappling with a distressing issue that has shaken them to the core. At the centre of controversy is the mining of gold in the neighboring Tsvingwe area which has led to the digging up of graves, triggering concern and anguish in the district.  

This was revealed during a Ward Alternative Mining Indaba (WAMI), organized by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA), Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) and Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD), in the district.  Residents expressed the frustration that had been building up among and within them for years, during this platform that was convened to provide a space for mining community members to share their concerns about mining activities.

An ambience of anticipation mixed with anxiety filled the hall as the indaba commenced, and the residents – determined to protect their heritage and ancestral connections – showed their eagerness to express their grievances. Among them were community elders, young activists, and other concerned citizens.

“Our ancestors nurtured this land, and it holds the memories and spirits of our people. We cannot allow them to be forgotten or disrespected,” proclaimed one of the elderly attendees, Mbuya Chipo whose words echoed through the hall and drew nods of approval from other community members.

Mbuya Chipo’s assertion resonated with the views of even the young in attendance such as Tariro who spoke passionately about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “These graves are not mere dirt and stones; they are the roots that connect us to our past and guide us into the future. We must protect them for the sake of our identity and the generations to come,” she said.

Participants to the indaba underscored the vital role that traditional leaders play in governance and decision-making processes within communities. However, they decried the ease with which some traditional leaders authorise the displacement of the deceased to make way for mining operations. In Penhalonga, where some graves are believed to be more than 80 years old, the issue becomes even more poignant. These burial sites hold the remains of individuals who were laid to rest during the 1940s, representing a significant part of the community’s history and heritage. Disrupting these graves not only disrespects the deceased but also disregards the cultural and spiritual connections that the community maintains with its ancestors.

Culturally, ancestral reverence is deeply rooted in many societies. Ancestors are seen as guardians, guiding forces, and sources of wisdom. Disturbing their final resting places can be perceived as a violation of the community’s core values and beliefs. The act undermines the trust and respect that communities place in their traditional leaders, as they are expected to protect and preserve the cultural fabric of their people.

The psychosocial effects of displacing the dead should not be underestimated. Grief and loss are deeply felt emotions, and disturbing graves can reopen wounds for families who have already experienced the pain of losing a loved one. It can evoke traumatic memories and a sense of helplessness, as families witness the disturbance of their ancestors’ remains. The long-lasting psychological impact on individuals and the community should not be disregarded in the pursuit of profit.

Furthermore, the decision to authorize the displacement of graves for mining purposes raises ethical questions. It calls into question the prioritization of economic gain over the respect for human dignity, cultural heritage, and the well-being of the community. It is crucial to strike a balance between economic development and the preservation of cultural and historical legacies, ensuring that the rights and values of the community are upheld.

Considering these concerns, it is imperative to foster a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to decision-making. Traditional leaders, mining companies, community representatives, and relevant authorities should engage in meaningful dialogue that incorporates the perspectives of all stakeholders. This should involve consultations, impact assessments, and the exploration of alternative solutions that mitigate the disturbance of graves and respect the community’s cultural and emotional well-being.

The residents of Penhalonga also raised concerns regarding their health and safety noting that the disturbance of graves close to residential areas exposes the community to potential health risks. Associated risks highlighted included the release of contaminants and the disruption of underground structures that may lead to soil and water contamination, endangering the well-being of the residents. Additionally, the mining activities were said to bring with them the risk of accidents and structural damage to nearby homes.

To resolve the situation amicably, residents emphasized the need for open dialogue, transparency, and the inclusion of community perspectives in any decision that affects their land, heritage, and well-being. Thus, thev alternative mining indaba was applauded as a platform that enabled various stakeholders, including mining companies, local authorities, and community representatives, to come together and find a balanced approach that respects the community’s heritage, safeguards the environment, and ensures the well-being of the residents.