By A Correspondent – The Climate Action Coalition of Zimbabwe (CACZ) on Thursday issued a strong statement highlighting growing environmental and climate-related concerns linked to small-scale mining activities in Masvingo and Manicaland provinces.

The coalition warned that while artisanal and small-scale mining plays a vital economic role for thousands of families, the sector is increasingly contributing to land degradation, deforestation, and water pollution — challenges that are compounding the effects of climate change in already vulnerable communities.

In its statement, CACZ stressed that safety and environmental compliance must not be treated as optional.

“Engagement is key, and safety is key,” the coalition said, urging miners, local authorities and government agencies to work together to promote responsible mining practices.

According to CACZ, parts of Masvingo and Manicaland have witnessed extensive land scarring, riverbank destruction and siltation of water bodies due to unregulated operations.

The environmental damage, the coalition noted, threatens agricultural productivity and water security in regions that are already grappling with erratic rainfall and rising temperatures.

The coalition expressed concern over what it described as the evasion of supervision by some operators, saying certain mining activities are being conducted outside formal oversight structures.

“There is an urgent need to abide by safety rules and environmental regulations. Evasion of supervision only worsens environmental harm and places lives at risk,” the statement read.

CACZ also raised alarm over nefarious activities allegedly linked to illegal mining syndicates, including operations in protected areas and along river systems. Such practices, the coalition warned, accelerate ecosystem destruction and undermine national climate resilience efforts.

Communities in both provinces have increasingly reported incidents of open pits left uncovered, hazardous working conditions, and pollution of streams used for domestic and agricultural purposes.
The coalition emphasized that strengthening monitoring systems and fostering constructive dialogue between miners and authorities would help curb destructive practices while safeguarding livelihoods.

“Small-scale miners are key economic actors, but sustainability must be at the center of their operations. Protecting the land and water today is essential for climate resilience tomorrow,” CACZ stated.

The organization called for intensified awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of environmental laws, and inclusive engagement platforms to ensure that mining activities do not undermine Zimbabwe’s broader climate adaptation and environmental protection goals.

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Twitter: Climate Action Coalition of Zimbabwe