Zimbabwe mining offenders to lose titles under new enforcement drive

Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando has issued a stern warning to Zimbabwe's mining industry, declaring that operators who flout environmental and legal regulations will lose their mining titles under sweeping new measures to restore discipline and accountability in the sector.

Speaking at the Chamber of Mines Annual Conference this week, Chitando said the government is preparing to launch the second phase of the Responsible Mining Initiative in July 2026, a move designed to curb illegal and destructive mining while ensuring communities and the environment benefit from resource extraction.

"Violating environmental laws will now result in loss of mining titles. You cannot hold on to a mining title if you are destroying the environment," Chitando declared, drawing applause from industry delegates.

The minister condemned what he called "unacceptable" and "unregulated" mining practices, warning that those operating without proper authorisation or in violation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) would face immediate revocation of licenses.

"It is time we face some hard truths. There is mining taking place in ways that are destructive and outside the bounds of the law. This must stop, and it must stop now," he said.

Operators without an EIA - or those failing to follow the conditions of an approved one - will not be allowed to continue mining, Chitando said.

The minister also signalled the end of speculative hoarding of mining claims, saying the government will repossess undeveloped titles, some of which date back to the 1960s and 1970s.

"The law is clear - mining titles must be developed. If you don't, you will lose it," Chitando said, noting that the practice of hoarding unutilised claims has stifled economic growth and limited opportunities for serious investors.

The policy shift will be backed by upcoming amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act, which are expected to be tabled in Parliament within the coming weeks.

The amendments will also introduce Special Mining Leases for projects above US$100 million, formalise the designation of strategic minerals, and reserve certain areas for local participation to ensure broader economic benefits.

However, Chitando cautioned that such incentives would not amount to a free pass for investors.

"If an investor requests guaranteed policy stability for 20 to 25 years, there must be upside for government as well. Any application that lacks reciprocal benefits for the country will be rejected," he said.

While applauding the Chamber of Mines for hosting what he described as a "high-quality" conference marked by strong research and debate, Chitando acknowledged persistent challenges in the industry - including power shortages, forex constraints, and limited access to long-term capital.

He urged the financial sector to step up and play a bigger role in unlocking funding for mining projects.

"Let's continue working together - government, investors, communities, and associations - to build a sustainable, competitive mining sector. Let's follow the law, protect our environment, empower our communities, and grow our economy," Chitando concluded.

The government's renewed focus on regulatory enforcement, environmental accountability, and beneficiation comes at a time when Zimbabwe is positioning its mining sector - rich in lithium, gold, platinum, and chrome - as a key pillar of economic recovery and growth.

But as the Responsible Mining Initiative enters its next phase, industry players are now on notice: compliance is no longer optional - it's mandatory.