Tinotenda Hove- Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has declared that alluvial gold mining has “largely ceased” across the country, but citizens are questioning whether his claims reflect the situation on the ground.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Ncube said enforcement of Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024 was ongoing, with “most provinces reporting significant progress in operations to eliminate alluvial mining.”

He added: “Since alluvial mining has largely ceased, attention has now shifted to the rehabilitation of degraded sites, with liability for the rehabilitation being borne by the perpetrators through the Polluter Pays Principle. To enforce this aspect, the Polluter Pays Principle shall be strengthened through the development of appropriate regulations and the strengthening of the existing legislative framework. The legislative reform shall be expedited to ensure environmental justice and accountability in view of public interest.”

But ordinary Zimbabweans, especially those in mining-affected communities, have disputed the Minister’s claims.

“Ceased? Where? Boardroom discussions and solutions are terrible always. Go to the ground and talk way forward from a point of experienced knowledge. The rivers are still being dug up, heap leaching chemicals are still contaminating them and destroying communities, i.e. Penhalonga,” said one concerned citizen who identified as Proud African.

Another resident, Mangoma Tawanda (@Tawan), challenged authorities to see the situation firsthand. “Come to Mashava, near Boss Mine Primary School and Chomugwaku Irrigation Scheme. You will thank me later,” he said.

The stark contrast between the Minister’s assurances and reports from communities raises questions about whether government is truly in touch with the realities of illegal gold mining.