Mine invasion case set for courts

MINER Duration Gold has confirmed that court proceedings following the recent invasion of its Vubachikwe Mine operations in Gwanda will commence on Monday, February 2, as the company seeks to resolve the dispute through formal legal channels.

Speaking on behalf of the company, Duration Gold spokesperson Mr Robert Mukondiwa said the miner would refrain from extensive public comment while the matter is before the courts, citing respect for due process and confidence in Zimbabwe's judicial system.

"As this matter is now in the hands of the courts, we do not have much comment to offer at this stage," Mr Mukondiwa said. "We have full confidence in the capable national judiciary and remain optimistic that respect for property rights exists and will continue to be upheld in Zimbabwe."

He said the company is keen to put the disruption behind it and refocus on its long-term plans for Vubachikwe Mine, which he described as a strategic national asset with strong growth potential.

"We are raring to go," Mr Mukondiwa said. "Once this issue is behind us, our attention will be firmly fixed on a clear development blueprint that will see meaningful funds invested into Vubachikwe Mine. This will pave the way for increased production and, importantly, open up more employment opportunities for workers drawn from the surrounding community."

Mr Mukondiwa added that Duration Gold is already planning to strengthen security at the mine once the court process is concluded, stressing that stability is critical for sustained investment and productivity.

"Greater security measures are being lined up once the court process is wrapped up," he said. "This is about protecting our people, our infrastructure, and the long-term viability of the mine."

Placing Vubachikwe within the broader national economic context, Mr Mukondiwa said the company is encouraged by prevailing gold prices and believes the mine can make a meaningful contribution to Zimbabwe's fiscus.

"With current gold prices, we are confident that Vubachikwe will join its contemporaries in producing gold at levels that contribute positively to the national purse," he said. "This is about responsible mining, national development, and ensuring that Zimbabwe's natural resources work for the benefit of its people."

He concluded by reaffirming Duration Gold's commitment to operating within the law and supporting Zimbabwe's economic growth once normal operations resume.