ACTIONAID Zimbabwe has called for sustainable and responsible mining practices in Zimbabwe to curb the impact of climate change.
Speaking during a multi-stakeholder dialogue in Bikita district, Masvingo, recently, ActionAid country director Joy Mabenge said mining firms should transition to renewable energies which did not cause pollution to achieve a positive impact in the mining sector.
He also called for collaboration in promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices.
“The outdated Mines and Minerals Act (1961) hinders participation of communities in areas with mining activities. There is a need for reforms to ensure local communities have a voice in decision-making processes in their mining regions. Together, we can achieve our goals and make a positive impact on the mining sector,” Mabenge said.
The dialogue, held under the theme Fostering effective local environmental governance and management in Zimbabwe's mining sector for global impact, brought together stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing the mining sector, including environmental degradation.
ActionAid Zimbabwe project manager for natural resource governance Obey Sonono said the mining sector was the cornerstone of the economy, projected to contribute 13,3% to the country's gross domestic product between 2024 and 2027.
Sonono called on the stakeholders to address the challenges confronting the sector.
“Zimbabwe's mining sector is the cornerstone of its economy. However, the sector still faces challenges, including environmental degradation in mining areas, hence the need to address these challenges for a positive impact on the sector,” he said.
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