By Trymore Tagwirei

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has halted ore transportation at Sabi Star Mine in Buhera and Gwanda Lithium Mine in Matabeleland South following the failure of both mining operations to implement effective dust suppression measures.

The mines have been issued Environmental Protection Orders (EPOs) requiring them to stop transporting ore along identified routes until comprehensive dust management plans are submitted to EMA for approval and fully implemented to the agency’s satisfaction.

EMA Environmental Education and Publicity Manager Amukela Sidange (pictured) expressed concern over increasing dust emissions from mining operations across the country.

“The Environmental Management Agency has expressed concern over the growing problem of fugitive dust emissions from development projects across the country, especially mining activities,” said Sidange.

“These emissions are commonly generated by the movement of heavy-duty trucks along mine haul roads and between operational areas, creating potential threats to the environment, infrastructure, and public health. Although repeated warnings have been issued, tickets served, and Environmental Protection Orders imposed to compel developers to introduce effective dust control measures, some projects have continued to fall short in addressing the problem,” she said.

The action against Sabi Star comes amid rising concerns raised by communities in Buhera over the environmental and social impacts of mining activities.

The Buhera Residents Network Trust recently petitioned Parliament over issues relating to Sabi Star Mine, prompting a parliamentary committee to visit Buhera to assess the situation.

As of October 23, 2026, both projects had been served with EPOs requiring the immediate suspension of truck movements within designated production areas. Under the orders, Sabi Star Mine and Gwanda Lithium Mine must halt ore transportation along identified routes until they submit comprehensive dust management plans and implement corrective measures approved by EMA.

The agency invoked Section 37(4) of the Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27] to protect the environment and enforce compliance.

Sidange warned that non-compliant operators could face prosecution and further legal consequences.

“Appropriate legal action, including prosecution where applicable under the relevant provisions of the law, will be pursued against offenders,” she said.

EMA urged communities living near the two mines to remain vigilant and report any truck movements that violate the restrictions.

“No development should be undertaken at the expense of environmental integrity or the health and well-being of surrounding communities,” Sidange said.

Efforts to obtain comment from Sabi Star Mine Public Relations Officer Emerson Njanja Mangezi were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone went unanswered by the time of publication.