Zimbabwe army to monitor riverbed mining ban

Traditional leaders have been called upon to remain vigilant and work closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent destructive and illegal mining activities that are damaging the environment and threatening water sources.

Speaking during the 3 Infantry Brigade Traditional Leaders' meeting held at Chief Nyashanu's homestead in Buhera, the Chief of Staff, General Staff of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Major General Augustine Chipwere, warned that rampant riverbed mining was causing serious environmental degradation.

He said while mining could economically empower communities, it must be conducted responsibly and within the confines of environmental regulations.

"Although it is a noble idea to economically empower our youths through mining, we note the destruction caused by illegal miners who leave open pits and pile sand on rivers. Traditional leaders should encourage proper mining practices and ensure procedures laid down by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) are followed. Those who destroy the environment must be reported to the police," said Major General Chipwere.

He emphasized that riverbed mining remains banned and urged the Provincial Joint Operations Command to continue monitoring compliance, warning that illegal activities were disturbing water flow and depriving communities downstream of vital water for domestic use and livestock.

"Climate change is already affecting Southern Africa, leading to reduced rainfall and lower harvests. We must work together to mitigate these effects by protecting rivers, forests, and natural ecosystems," he added.

Major General Chipwere also highlighted several infrastructure projects being undertaken by the army in partnership with traditional leaders and local communities.

Among them are the construction of a Civil Registry Office in Buhera Central, expected to be completed next year, boarding houses for girls at Nyatsanza Primary School in Mutasa North, a church at St Columbus, a dairy and community shop at Manica Bridge in Mutasa Central, and a classroom block in Headlands Constituency, Makoni District.

"These projects are a result of collaboration between traditional leaders, communities, and the Zimbabwe National Army," he said.

Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, commended the partnership between traditional leaders and the army, saying it was instrumental in promoting peace, stability, and local development.

"Traditional leaders are torchbearers of development. They play a vital role in promoting education, health, and social stability. Working with the ZNA and Government, they are helping drive the devolution agenda toward Vision 2030," said Minister Mugadza.

He urged traditional leaders to continue working with Government to tackle poverty, drug abuse, gender-based violence, and youth unemployment.

"If we unite with a spirit of patriotism, we will raise the cultural and economic profile of our province," he added.

The meeting underscored the growing importance of traditional leaders as key partners in sustainable development, environmental conservation, and national stability.