Government to set mining school campuses

GOVERNMENT intends to set up Zimbabwe School of Mines campuses across the country targeting small-scale and artisanal miners as part of efforts to formalise their operations.

According to Fidelity Gold Refiners, Zimbabwe’s sole authorised gold buyer, output for 2022 reached 35,3 tonnes with small-scale miners accounting for about 60 percent of total production.

Government is targeting 100 tonnes of gold per annum by year end.

Since its inception in 1926, the Zimbabwe School of Mines has produced competent miners who are in demand within the Sadc region and beyond.

In an interview, Mines and Mining Development Deputy Minister Engineer Polite Kambamura said for small-scale and artisanal miners to grow and contribute to the country’s economic development, there is a need to equip them with requisite mining skills.

“We were at the Zimbabwe School of Mines and we were impressed with the courses they offer. As such, we are planning on having footprints of the school all over the country in a move that is aimed at training, especially the small-scale and artisanal miners, to formalise and professionalise their operations,” he said.

Eng Kambamura urged small-scale and artisanal miners to put safety first in all their activities following the onset of the rainy season when many mine accidents are recorded across the country.

Many accidents are as a result of the collapse of mines due to lack of proper supporting structures.

“We are in the rainy season and small-scale and artisanal miners are the most affected. Due to rains, mines may collapse and others could be flooded,” said Deputy Minister Kambamura.

Eng Kambamura urged miners to exercise caution and avoid venturing underground while the ground is wet.

The small-scale mining sector in Zimbabwe is contributing significantly to the country’s mineral output.

This sector has, however, been grappling with a mixed safety record. A recent survey conducted by the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe revealed a shocking trend.

Between January and September 2023, there were 110 recorded fatalities in the country’s mines compared to 106 accidents recorded during the same period last year.