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Corruption bars panners from obtaining licences
Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights)
October 17, 2011

Alleged corruption and confusion within the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development emerged to be one of the biggest stumbling blocks in the informal miners' attempts to obtain licenses.

The issue was raised on the 13th of October at a meeting convened by ZimRights at Sikati Business Centre, Karoi in Mashonaland West. As a follow-up to others like it, the meeting sought to encourage informal miners in Kasimure to apply for mining licenses. The intention is to assist them in legalising their mining claims so that they can realise meaningful incomes and enhance their livelihoods.

It was during the discussion that the majority of the participants indicted that they are eager to obtain the legal papers and that some of them have already made attempts to get licensed, but their efforts are being hampered by what they believe to be sabotage and corruption by the responsible authorities. Morgan Hove of Tich Mining Syndicate, was among ten of the participants whose hopes of obtaining a licence has been shattered. He said, him and his partners registered two claims on 7th May 2008 and were issued with prospecting licences. He is, however, disgruntled with the said bureaucratic channels they have undergone so far in the responsible ministry without gaining the certificate needed for them to start operating legally. Indications are that they have approached several offices within the Ministry of Mines without any success.

Participants also highlighted that the issuing body has caused problems by booking a claim to more than one owner, resulting in conflicts. Some also questioned whether a prospecting licence gives someone the power to go and evict the incumbent informal miner.

ZimRights, therefore, appeals for urgent intervention from the responsible ministry to exercise professionalism in the execution of its duties. This will curb the confusion that holds the potential to heighten to uncontrollable levels. We also urge the personnel to bring to an end issues such as double booking and the delays in issuance of certificates.

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