President of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), Henrietta Rushwaya, has praised the Government’s efforts to formalise the artisanal and small-scale mining sector, saying the move is unlocking economic opportunities for thousands of miners while strengthening Zimbabwe’s economy.
Speaking in a sideline interview at the annual Chamber of Mines Annual Conference in Victoria Falls on Thursday, Rushwaya said the formalisation programme has transformed the fortunes of small-scale miners, who were previously excluded from mainstream financial and economic systems.She said formalisation has enabled miners to access banking facilities, secure financing and participate more effectively in the country’s economic development.
“The issue of formalising the small-scale mining sector is of paramount importance, especially when we talk about responsible mining. Once miners are formalised, they can access loans, own property and become part of the broader economic framework,” Rushwaya said.
She noted that in the past, many small-scale miners struggled to obtain financial support because the sector was largely informal and lacked the structures required by financial institutions.
According to Rushwaya, the Second Republic’s support for the sector has helped elevate small-scale miners into a major force within Zimbabwe’s mining industry, contributing significantly to mineral production, export earnings and foreign currency generation. She said the sector has recorded substantial growth over the years and has become one of the country’s leading contributors to foreign currency receipts.
Rushwaya also highlighted the growing cooperation between small-scale miners and regulatory institutions such as the Environmental Management Agency and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, saying this has improved compliance with environmental and taxation regulations while promoting responsible mining practices.
She acknowledged that the sector had previously faced criticism over environmental degradation and poor land reclamation practices but said miners are increasingly embracing sustainable mining methods through partnerships with Government and regulators.
“The sector was once looked down upon because of some of the challenges associated with mining activities. However, we are now working hand in hand with Government, banks and regulators to ensure that mining is done responsibly and sustainably,” she said.
Rushwaya added that continued support for small-scale miners would stimulate economic activity in rural communities, create employment opportunities and expand access to funding for previously marginalised groups.
She expressed confidence that a fully formalised and empowered small-scale mining sector would play an even greater role in increasing Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and advancing the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
Her remarks come as stakeholders at the Chamber of Mines conference continue to deliberate on strategies aimed at enhancing investment, sustainability and growth within Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
