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Business Reporter

Metallon Corporation is phasing out near-surface mining and resuming underground shaft operations at its Mazowe Gold Mine in Mashonaland Central province, as it looks to align with regulatory best practices.

The new approach will entail extensive rehabilitation of existing mining areas and a focus on reintroducing safer, more controlled underground shaft mining.

This shift, according to Metallon, will significantly benefit miners, local communities, and the environment.

The strategic move aligns with the Government’s call for responsible mining practices.

Metallon, which also owns Redwing Mine and How Mines, said the transition to underground shaft operations was crucial to ensure the safety of miners and protecting the surrounding communities.

It said the method minimised environmental impact and contributed more to the national fiscus through efficient resource extraction.

“This step is necessary to ensure that mining is conducted safely, thereby averting loss of life and injury to miners and protecting local communities and the environment,” said Metallon.

“Consequently, MMC is ending all unsafe near-surface mining in favour of more secure operations; underground shaft operations will be safer for miners and the community. It will also contribute more to the national fiscus and boost supporting industries.”

Metallon has acknowledged encountering resistance from some miners accustomed to surface mining.

However, the company has emphasised the necessity of enforcing responsible mining practices, including proper pit rehabilitation, to pave the way for a sustainable future.

“Mazowe Mining Company is cooperating with all parties involved to ensure the success of this transition to safer mining. Together, we aim to set a benchmark for responsible mining, fostering a secure and sustainable future for all stakeholders,” the company said.

Early this month, 15 subsistence miners were trapped underground for four days after a shaft collapsed at Metallon’s Redwing Mine in Penhalonga. Artisanal mining, while a source of livelihood for many, becomes dangerous, especially during the rainy season.

Heavy rains and saturated ground pose serious threats to miners, making it crucial to understand the risks and take necessary precautions. Heavy rains loosen the soil, making landslides and cave-ins more likely.

This is especially risky in old and disused mines with weakened structures. Heavy rains and saturated ground not only increase the risk of accidents within the mines but also make rescue operations incredibly difficult in the event of accidents.

The rains and the possible extraction of gold from support pillars are now seen as the likely reason behind the Redwing shaft collapse.

The Redwing Mine collapse has prompted renewed calls for stricter regulations and increased support for subsistence miners in Zimbabwe. The Redwing mine collapse is being investigated to determine the cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.