Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe government has intensified efforts to restore river ecosystems damaged by illegal alluvial mining, with Cabinet announcing that perpetrators will now bear full responsibility for rehabilitating degraded sites under the “Polluter Pays Principle.”
Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the enforcement of Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024, which outlaws alluvial mining on the banks of degraded rivers, is yielding positive results across the country.
“Since alluvial mining has largely ceased, attention has now shifted to the rehabilitation of degraded sites, with liability for the rehabilitation being borne by the perpetrators. To enforce this aspect, the Polluter Pays Principle shall be strengthened through the development of appropriate regulations and the strengthening of the existing legislative framework,” he said.
He said the government will expedite legislative reforms to ensure environmental justice and accountability in line with public interest.
The move is part of broader efforts to restore ecological balance and safeguard communities who depend on rivers for water, farming, and livelihoods.
Cabinet noted that no sites requiring rehabilitation were identified in Matabeleland North, Masvingo, Bulawayo, and Harare Metropolitan Provinces, while operations continue in other provinces where damage had been more severe.
Meanwhile, the government is heightening monitoring, evaluation, and enforcement mechanisms to prevent any resurgence of alluvial mining activities and to ensure sustainable natural resource management.
Dr Muswere reaffirmed government commitment to protecting Zimbabwe’s natural heritage, noting that the clampdown on alluvial mining and the rehabilitation of rivers mark a decisive step towards environmental accountability and the promotion of sustainable development.
New Ziana
