Illegal mining threatens Mavhuradonha

The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) has raised the alarm over ongoing illegal mining activities in the Mavhuradonha Wilderness, warning that the operations pose a serious threat to one of the country's most treasured natural reserves.

Covering 600 square kilometres on the eastern Zambezi Escarpment, Mavhuradonha was declared a national monument in 2017 for its unique cultural, historical, and ecological significance. The reserve hosts rare wildlife, including 229 bird species and 41 species of large and medium-sized mammals, as well as San rock art and the ruins of Mutota's Kraal.

Recent investigative reporting revealed that Chinese companies, including Afrochine Smelting and Labenmon Investments, have been conducting open-cast chrome mining within the reserve, breaking down gates, opening gravel roads, and disrupting wildlife habitats. Reports suggest that some government officials in Mashonaland Central "shielded" the miners, despite a 2020 ban on mining in all national parks. Documents reviewed indicated that a regional director at NMMZ in 2017 had facilitated contact between Afrochine and local authorities, raising concerns about enforcement lapses. Investigators described the environmental impact as devastating, noting that "opencast mining has left gaping holes… wild animals falling into their deaths in numbers."

In response, NMMZ clarified that no mining permits have ever been issued for Mavhuradonha. The agency emphasized that any access letters do not constitute permission to mine, as legal authorization requires explicit written consent from the Executive Director, which has never been granted.

The organisation further highlighted ongoing multi-stakeholder efforts to curb illegal mining, including inspections and coordination with the Ministry of Mines, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), rural district councils, traditional leaders, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police. NMMZ also commended the role of media in raising awareness and strengthening heritage protection, noting that responsible journalism is a critical tool in safeguarding the country's cultural and ecological assets.

"Mavhuradonha is of exceptional cultural, ecological, and historical significance and deserves the highest levels of protection," NMMZ said. "Protecting heritage sites like Mavhuradonha is a collective responsibility, essential for present and future generations."

The agency urged all stakeholders to comply with national laws and the government's 2020 directive banning mining in protected areas, underscoring the need for a unified effort to preserve Zimbabwe's natural and historical heritage