A Chinese company operating a gold mine in eastern Zimbabwe since at least 2021 is facing scrutiny from government officials and mounting criticism from local residents.
The company, Sino Africa Huijin Holdings, has been accused of causing significant environmental damage and negatively impacting nearby communities through its mining activities in the Premier Estate area of Mutasa District, Manicaland Province.
Residents and community organizations have voiced concerns over blasting operations that have reportedly destroyed a mountain, displaced wildlife, and caused structural damage to homes due to tremors. Dust pollution and potential cyanide contamination of water sources are also cited as major worries. Cyanide, used in gold extraction, is known to pose serious environmental and health risks if not managed properly.
Further allegations include claims that the company falsified community signatures on its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report, raising serious questions about transparency and legitimacy.
Community Outcry and Government Action
The concerns of affected villagers prompted the government to temporarily shut down Sino Africa Huijin’s operations twice in 2024. However, mining activities resumed after the company reportedly made commitments to address the issues.
One local resident, Ishewedenga Moyo, who lives just 300 meters from the mine, expressed frustration over the situation. “The blasting noise and vibrations are destroying wildlife habitats and ecosystems, damaging biodiversity, and causing cracks in our homes,” Moyo said in December. He added that residents were left in a difficult position, suggesting relocation and compensation as possible solutions.
A government task force, the Manicaland Joint Command Task Force, led the mine closures to ensure compliance with environmental and operational requirements. Traditional Chief James Kurauone of Mutasa District confirmed that the company was forced to shut down twice after failing to address air pollution, destructive blasting, and unfulfilled corporate social responsibilities.
“We will be holding a meeting with mining officials and the community to discuss a way forward,” Chief Kurauone said in mid-December.
Mining Resumes Amid Promises of Compliance
Operations at the mine restarted on November 25 following discussions between government representatives, community leaders, and Sino Africa Huijin officials. Daniel Panganai, the company’s human resources manager, stated that the firm had met all outlined requirements but declined to provide further details.
Manicaland’s Minister of State, Misheck Mugadza, also said the company had committed to adhering to mining regulations and addressing community grievances. He highlighted the firm’s efforts to fulfill its social responsibilities, including donations to a local hospital and the drilling of a water well for a school. Some residents have reportedly received compensation for damages, with the company expected to address all pending claims.
Chinese Investment and Controversy in Zimbabwe’s Mining Sector
The controversy surrounding Sino Africa Huijin’s operations reflects broader challenges associated with Chinese investments in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. A September report by the Harare-based Center for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) found that Chinese mining ventures frequently result in environmental degradation, violations of cultural rights, and labor law breaches.
According to CNRG, Chinese investors dominate approximately 90% of Zimbabwe’s mining industry. In 2023 alone, Chinese mining firms contributed an estimated $2.79 billion to the sector. However, critics argue that these investments often come at a high cost to local communities and the environment.
Local resident Thobekile Mhenziwamukuru criticized the government’s handling of complaints. “When we call officials, they go directly to the Sino mine offices without involving community leaders. They come back and tell us that the explosives will be of lower magnitude next time, but nothing really changes,” Mhenziwamukuru said.
The resident also alleged that corruption is hindering progress. “Government officials treat the mine as a cash cow, exchanging bribes to reopen operations after temporary shutdowns. There’s no fairness in the process,” she added.
Farai Maguwu, CNRG’s Executive Director, echoed these concerns, accusing local lawmakers of benefiting from the situation. “Instead of enforcing regulations, officials demand bribes to close and reopen the mine repeatedly. Meanwhile, the environment continues to suffer,” he said.
Efforts to reach government stakeholders, including the Ministry of Mines and the Environmental Management Agency, for a response were unsuccessful.
“This cycle of exploitation continues unchecked while the environment and communities bear the brunt of these actions,” Maguwu concluded.
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