Trymore Tagwirei
Despite the banning of mercury in 2020, widespread use of the metal by gold miners in Mberengwa continues, with some houses now turned into gold processing facilities.
Mercury is used to extract gold from a stable amalgam which is heated to evaporate the mercury and isolate the gold. In December 2020, Parliament of Zimbabwe ratified the Minata Convention, effectively marking the beginning of a ban on the use of mercury.
Letwin Mutavu, a local resident of Ward 37, told EnviroPress that several houses at the growth point were now used as gold refinery facilities where mercury is widely used.
“There is uncontrolled gold processing in this area and the use of mercury is alarming. We understand that mercury is bad both to personal health and to the environment of this densely populated area,” said Matavu.
Ward 37 Councillor Justin Mahombera said miners opted for mercury due to its affordability relative to alternative chemicals used to separate gold from the ore.
“Mining plays a key role in our local economy but many people do not fully understand the dangers posed by the rampant and unchecked use of mercury, which is the most affordable option that they have. As council, we want to discuss this issue extensively and find a sustainable solution with other stakeholders,” said Mahombera.
According to a report by the Global Health Index, inhaled mercury vapor results in impaired cognitive function, neurological damage, kidney damage and other health problems.
Adopted at the 5th Session of the Inter-Governmental Committee in Geneva, Switzerland on 19 January, 2013, the Minata Convention is a global treaty whose objective is to protect human health and environment from the adverse effects of mercury.
Mercury usage in gold mining contaminates water sources and soil, leading to bio-accumulation whereby the metal ends up into the food chain. People residing close to artisanal mining activities can accumulate mercury into their bodies, which is particularly toxic for children, pregnant women and the elderly.
