Obert Sithole

Chief Mapanzure of Zvishavane has called for responsible mining practices after tragedy struck Ngwaro village when two children drowned while swimming in an abandoned open-pit chrome mine on Saturday, 04 January, 2024.

Nine-year-old Tendai Hove and her 11-year-old cousin, Leeroy Makungwe lost their lives in the tragic incident.

Chief Mapanzure, real named Collen Chimhofu, expressed his deep sadness over the loss of the two young lives, urging miners to be responsible and cover disused pits.

“Miners should follow the laws of the country and close their pits to ensure a safe environment. We have children who play wherever they want, and it’s the miners’ responsibility to close their pits.

“It’s good to make money and build up the country, but it doesn’t help to build a house while destroying it on the other side,” Chief Mapanzure said.

Zandile Mvududu, project manager at Silveira House, echoed Chief Mapanzure’s sentiments, urging miners to close or fence abandoned pits.

“Children love playing near water and swimming, especially during the rainy season. However, they don’t have an idea of how dangerous that could be. Even adults too face the risk, and so are animals,” said Mvududu.

She emphasized the importance of environmental social governance in mining practices.

“In Zimbabwe, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Act requires miners to rehabilitate and restore mined land to its original state or to a state that is acceptable to the community.

“This includes closing or fencing in disused pits to prevent accidents and environmental degradation. Silveira House is working with miners, communities, and regulatory authorities to promote responsible mining practices and ensure that ESG principles are integrated into mining operations,” Mvududu said.

She said the incident highlighted the need for greater awareness and action to prevent such tragedies in the future.