Muslims give Chengxi Mine tough terms for exhumation of bodies

Members of Zimbabwe's Muslim community have set strict conditions for the exhumation of their relatives' remains at Peak Mine Cemetery in Shurugwi, amid plans by a Chinese mining firm to expand operations in the area.

The community, led by Sheikh Ishmail Duwa, president of the Halaal Certification Regulatory Board of Zimbabwe, said the mining company must cover all costs associated with the sensitive process before any relocation can proceed.

The exhumations are being undertaken to pave way for new gold mining activities by Chengxi Mine in the Botorekwa Escarpments.

During a meeting held at the District Development Co-ordinator's office, representatives of the Muslim community presented their demands to Simba Manyeruke, who is representing the mining company.

The group insisted that Chengxi Mine should fully fund the entire process, citing the cultural, religious and logistical complexities involved in exhumation and reburial.

About 40 Muslim representatives travelled from Harare to Shurugwi to attend the meeting, where they outlined a comprehensive list of requirements.

These include funding for religious rites such as sadaka, transport costs - including for remains that may need to be reburied in Malawi - as well as the provision of new tombstones for graves that previously had them.

They also demanded financial support for food during family gatherings linked to the reburial ceremonies, and the hiring of a health expert to oversee the exhumation process.

In addition, the community called for the provision of protective clothing for family members involved in the process, citing health and safety risks, including exposure to hazardous conditions and wildlife, as some graves date back as far as 87 years.

The demands are significantly broader than those of local residents, who are reportedly only seeking transport assistance for relocating remains.

Takudzwa Pasipanodya, chief executive officer of Zi-Heritage and Environmental Consultancy, said efforts are ongoing to reach affected families before any exhumations take place.

"We only exhume if we agree with the family, and the families should be there," he said, noting that the cemetery includes graves of both local Zimbabweans and individuals of Malawian origin.

The developments highlight the complex intersection of mining expansion, cultural sensitivities and community rights, as authorities and investors navigate the relocation of burial sites to unlock mineral resources.